Olly Barkley has stunned Bath by announcing he will join Gloucester, their bitter west-country rivals, at the end of the season. The 26-year-old, capped 21 times by England, has signed a two-year contract at Kingsholm and will leave Bath, where he is the second highest points scorer in the club's history, in the summer after seven years.

Barkley, who can play at both fly half and inside centre, admitted it was difficult decision to leave, but he was excited by the new challenge. “Bath has played a massive part in my life for a long time – not just as a rugby player but also as a person – and I would like to thank everybody involved,” he said. “This was not an easy decision to make and I am determined to leave the club on a high at the end of the season. We are challenging strongly in the Premiership and hopefully we can bring some silverware back to the Rec.

“When you look at the training facilities at Hartpury College and the stadium developments at Kingsholm, it is clear that Gloucester is a club that is going places. I look forward to playing my part next season and establishing myself in the squad.”

Dean Ryan, Gloucester’s head coach, was thrilled with his latest signing. “We were looking for an experienced back to enhance our squad for next season and Olly fits the bill perfectly," Ryan said. "He is a skilful runner, clinical kicker and versatile enough to play at international level in more than one position.

"Olly recognises that he will have to work exceptionally hard to earn his place in the Gloucester team owing to the strength of our existing squad, but that is one of the reasons we wanted him – he has a great attitude and will not shy away from the challenge.

“This signing reinforces our desire to create a competitive environment at Gloucester with outstanding young talent at its core, which can only be good for the future of the club.”