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Forward Joe Owen has signed a new long-term contract with Bristol Bears to stay with the Prem club beyond this season.
The 24-year-old has played 51 games for Bristol since signing in 2022 from National Two West side Clifton in the fourth tier.
Owen, who can play in the second or back row, also made his debut for England A last November, coming on from the bench as they beat Spain.
Director of rugby at Bristol Pat Lam said he believes Owen has the potential to continue developing “towards international honours”.
“He’s a great example that you don’t have to come through a traditional academy pathway to achieve your rugby ambitions,” director of Bristol Pat Lam said.
“Joe has worked incredibly hard on every aspect of his game – developing physically and mentally, while significantly improving his skillset and understanding of what it takes to perform at the highest level.”
