Exmouth rugby club have announced the huge signing of vastly experienced former Exeter Chiefs lock Chris Bentley for the forthcoming season. The 34 year old lock boasts many years experience as a full time professional and has played at Orrell, Exeter Chiefs (two spells), Tasman Makos and more recently Taunton Titans. The 6 ft 6inch second row has Premiership, Championship, European Challenge Cup and NPC Air New Zealand cup Experience to bring to the young Exmouth squad.

Exmouth RFC Head Coach Jon Hill comments:

"This is a massive signing for us, as we look to add some experience and quality to what is a very talented, but young Exmouth squad. We have long been after Chris as we feel he could add a huge amount of knowledge and expertise in the key area of the line out but also in many other areas of the game. We hope to tap into his experience which has seen him represent the Exeter Chiefs in The Premiership and the European challenge cup, and has seen him play in many areas of the world. Having known Chris for a number of years, I am well aware of his undoubted passion and commitment that he brings to the game, and am also well aware of the old school values that he firmly believes in on and off the field, which is a huge attraction to a club like ourselves.

"Chris came along to a session of ours back in February to offer assistance on our line out. His feedback and knowledge were massively beneficial to us and it was hugely evident that Chris had a burning desire to play for a number of years yet. He coached a number of our players a few years ago when he was involved in the Exeter Chiefs Colts set up such as Lloyd Morgan and Shane Cooper, and it is clear that he is a hugely respected player and individual within South West Rugby Circles and beyond.

"Whilst Chris will not be available for every game due to his Commercial responsibilities at the Exeter Chiefs, he is expected to be available for around 65 per cent of our League fixtures. His job at Exeter requires him to work on their Saturday home games. He lives locally in Topsham, and it is a pretty perfect fit for all concerned. I know he has been training hard recently as he has been out of the game for the last few months, but with this, and knowing Chris' personality, he will bring a huge amount of motivation, desire and commitment that will rub off on those around him.

"Along with the signing of former Harlequins Scrum Half Richard Bolt we now have some vastly experienced players in some key positions to add to full back Jon Fabian, Second Row Stuart Lowe, Captain and back rower Ross Morshead and current scrum half Garry Hooper.

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