Ex-Leicester lock Harry Wells returns to the PREM on short-term deal

Experienced loose forward Harry Wells has joined Bristol Bears on a three-month deal ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The 32-year-old arrives at the Bears with a wealth of Gallagher PREM and Investec Champions Cup experience following more than a decade at Leicester Tigers, where he made 236 first-team appearances after progressing through the club’s Academy.

Wells made his Tigers debut as a 19-year-old in 2013 before returning to Welford Road as a senior player in 2016 following a spell with Bedford Blues in the Championship.

A Gallagher PREM winner in 2022, he was released by Leicester at the end of last season and signed for ambitious National 2 East outfit, Oundle RFC, as a player-coach, who have agreed to release Wells for the duration of the short-term deal with the Bears.

Director of Rugby Pat Lam said: “Harry is a proven PREM player who brings a huge amount of quality and experience to our group.

“He’s played more than 200 games at this level, won the PREM and knows exactly what it takes to perform consistently in a demanding competition.

“With Josh Caulfield, Bill Mata and Khalik Kareem continuing their return from injury, it was important for us to bolster our back five options in the pack and Harry is an excellent fit.

“He’s a tough, hard-working player who does the basics extremely well and his experience will be invaluable to the group over the next three months.”

Wells said: “I’m really excited to have the opportunity to join Bristol and to test myself at a new club and a new environment. I look forward to contributing everything I can in the time that I’m here.

“I’m also grateful to Oundle RFC for their support in allowing me to take up this short-term opportunity with Bristol. I remain committed to Oundle and plan to return to the club following the conclusion of my time with the Bears.”