FORMER Hartpury RFC scrum-half Oscar Lennon has been rewarded for an impressive season in the Championship after sealing a return to Premiership side Bristol Bears for the 2026/27 campaign.

Lennon heads back to Ashton Gate after spending the 2025/26 season at Hartpury, where he continued his development with a series of eye-catching performances before gaining further experience with Major League Rugby side the New England Free Jacks.

The scrum-half has already made 15 senior appearances for Bristol and the club believes his spell away has helped him mature both on and off the field.

Bristol Bears director of rugby Pat Lam praised the impact of Lennon's season at Hartpury and said the move had played an important role in his progression.

He said: "Oscar has had an excellent season with Hartpury and we've been really pleased with the way he has continued to develop his game and maturity as a player.

"He already knows our environment, our game and what is expected at Bristol Bears, which is a real advantage. He's a player with a very good attitude who is always eager to learn and improve."

Lennon said his time at Hartpury had been invaluable as he looked to establish himself at Premiership level.

He said: "I've enjoyed my time with Hartpury and it's been a really valuable experience for my development. I've got fond memories of playing for both teams – Hartpury and Free Jacks – but I'm looking forward to coming back and challenging myself again at Bristol Bears."

He added that he was excited to return to a club he had always enjoyed being part of and was looking forward to competing for a place in the Bears squad while continuing to learn from the coaching staff and his fellow scrum-halves throughout the new season.