Samoan international back Alapati Leiua will leave Bristol Bears at the end of the season to join French Pro D2 side Vannes, the club have confirmed.
Leiua, 33, is what Bristol refers to as 'A Foundation Bear' - having been at the club since the rebranding in 2018.
The winger was one of Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam’s first signings, joining the club in 2018 and has made 101 appearances over five seasons, scoring 26 tries.
READ MORE: Samoan international to leave Bristol Bears after five seasons
Lam said: "Alapati has truly been a fantastic servant to the Bears and a leader for our culture and environment.
"He has made an immense contribution on and off the field, laying the foundations for the next chapter of the Bears’ journey.
“We are delighted for Alapati, his wife Carmel and son, Manu about the opportunity that has come up to play in France and to experience a different culture.
"He can be proud of what he has achieved and the standards that he has set.
“He departs with our love and best wishes and will be recognised, as we do with all our leavers, on the final home game of the season versus Exeter Chiefs.”
Leiua becomes the third player confirmed as departing the Bears at the end of the season with centre Antoine Frisch joining Munster on a three-year deal while lock Dave Attwood is moving back to Bath Rugby, reportedly on a two year contract.
