Highly rated quartet commit futures to Bristol

Back rower James Dun - a member of the Junior Academy – agrees a new four-year deal, while Bristol Grammar School duo Will Capon (four years) and Charlie Powell (three years) sign their first professional contracts.

England U20s winger Aaron Chapman – who has scored three tries in four competitive appearances - puts pen to paper on a four-year deal.

Bristol-born Dun has made two senior appearances this season, scoring in the B&I Cup clash versus Doncaster in October.

Homegrown Capon and Powell – both of whom have been part of this season’s England U18s training squad – made their senior debuts from the replacements bench in the same fixture against the Knights.

“A core of Bristolian players representing the club is core to our values and our framework for success. James, Will and Charlie embody the vision having developed through the Academy from a young age and represented combination clubs in the area,” said head coach Pat Lam.

“Meanwhile, Aaron [Chapman] has made an instant impression in his first season in professional rugby. Earning an England U20s call-up is deserved recognition for the improvements he is making in his game and underlines his potential.

“The environment and culture in place means that these guys believe that they can achieve their career ambitions at the club.”

Academy manager Mike Hall added: “James [Dun] has shown his leadership qualities and he’s developing quickly alongside some world-class players in the back row. James is determined to establish himself as a first team regular and we admire that desire and tenacity in him.

“For Charlie [Powell] and Will [Capon] to have represented the first team whilst still at school is a remarkable achievement and testament to their hard work and discipline. As an Academy, we have worked closely with these guys for many years, so to see them achieve professional contracts is hugely fulfilling.

“These players have the ability to go on to do fantastic things for club and country if they continue to stay grounded and show the right attitude in their preparation and learning.”