'Hugely important' Skeldon pens new deal to stay with Bears

Scotland hooker Lana Skeldon has re-signed with Bristol Bears to stay in the West Country for a fourth season.

The 32-year-old joined the club in November 2023 alongside back-row Evie Gallagher following the collapse of Worcester Warriors. Skeldon has won 87 caps for Scotland and started in 84 of those matches.

Having missed the start of the Premiership Women’s Rugby season due to injury, the front-row has been a leading figure for Scott Lawson’s team as they have picked up wins against Sale Sharks, Loughborough Lightning, Leicester Tigers and Harlequins in the second half of the season.

Scott Lawson, Bristol Bears head coach, said: “Lana is a hugely important player for us and we’re delighted she’s signed a new deal. Her experience, leadership and quality around the squad are invaluable, and since returning from injury, she’s made a massive impact both on and off the field.

“She sets really high standards every day and brings a huge amount to the environment. We’re excited to continue working with her moving forward.”

Last week Bears confirmed 11 departures from the West Country. These included a number of Wales and Scotland internationals as Lawson described the “changing landscape” of women’s rugby, as players offered centralised contracts by their unions likely to sign with Celtic Challenge teams in the future.

Among the leavers at Shaftesbury Park were Alisha and Jasmine Joyce, Jenna de Vera, Emma Orr, Elliann Clarke and Rhea Clarke. Canada internationals Pamphinette Buisa and Chloe Daniels will also leave Bears after one season with the club.

This weekend Bristol take on a bruised Gloucester Hartpury in their final game of the 2025/26 season.

Travelling to Kingsholm Stadium will be a tough task for the club placed eighth in the league, even if the three-time league champions did experience a first loss in 18 months last time out against Trailfinders Women.

Skeldon said: “I’m really pleased to be staying at Bears. I’ve loved my time at the club and I’m excited about what this group can achieve together.

“The support from the coaches, staff and players has been brilliant and I’m looking forward to continuing to contribute both on and off the pitch next season.”