BATH have announced today that the back row trio of Matt Garvey, Leroy Houston and Guy Mercer have renewed their contracts with the club.

Both Garvey and Houston arrived at the Recreation Ground ahead of last season, while Mercer moved through the club's academy system to senior status in 2011.

Garvey and Houston both had a big impact in their first year and were named Supporters’ Player and Players’ Player of the Year respectively at the Annual Awards Dinner in May.

“Matt, Leroy and Guy are all talented players, and offer different qualities that give us a good variety and strength in depth in the back row,” said head coach Mike Ford.

“They are passionate about the Club and committed to what we are trying to achieve here. We’re really happy they are staying on and know they’ll continue to give their all for us.”

Houston is in the starting line-up for this weekend's clash with local rivals Gloucester and has praised the 'world class facilities' at the Rec.

“I’ve loved my time at Bath so far, and I’m really looking forward to progressing with the team," said Houston.

"We’ve got world class facilities, fantastic coaches and top support staff – I can’t think of anywhere I’d rather be to continue my career.”

Garvey is among the replacements this weekend but admitted there was no question that he would sign a new deal with Bath.

“It was an easy decision to make to stay at Bath," said Garvey.

"It is a great squad to be part of and we are all working hard to achieve our goals. My family and I were made to feel really welcome from the moment we arrived, and that also played its part in making me want to stay.”

Mercer, who grew up in Bath, has risen through the ranks at the Club, graduating from the Academy ahead of the 2011/12 season and is proud to pull on the blue and white jersey.

“There’s no better feeling for me than running out in front of a packed out Recreation Ground wearing the colours of the team I’ve supported since I was a kid," he said.

"There is a big emphasis on making sure players keep developing here at Bath, and you can see that it’s paying off with the number of young players making their way into the first team.

"This is the best environment for me to keep progressing, and I’m excited to be part of the Club going forward.”