Ulster Rugby confirmed earlier that Dan Tuohy has joined English premiership side Bristol with immediate effect.
Since joining in 2009, Tuohy has amassed 136 appearances for Ulster and has played 11 times for Ireland. He scored his only international try on his debut against New Zealand in 2010.
Speaking of Tuohy's departure, Ulster Director of Rugby Les Kiss said: "When Bristol made the approach, it was only fair that we considered it and the outcome is very suitable for all parties."
BREAKING: Ulster lock Dan Tuohy will join Aviva Premiership side @Bristol_RFC with immediate effect. pic.twitter.com/bGmCK8yaU8
— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) December 6, 2016
"We are pretty well stocked in the second row with Franco van der Merwe, Iain Henderson, Alan O'Connor, Pete Browne, Robbie Diack and Kieran Treadwell all providing good options for us. We also have young up and coming locks John Donnan and Alex Thompson in our rugby programme."
"We would like to thank Dan for his contribution to Ulster Rugby and wish him well as he embarks on a new challenge with Bristol.”
Bristol currently sit bottom of the Aviva premiership having lost all 10 of their matches so far.
Tuohy will be returning to the city of his birth and while grateful for his time at Ulster, he said of his new challenge: "It's been a privilege and an honour to represent Ulster and Ireland for the past seven and a half years."
"Like any career, it has had its ups and downs, but the continued support of those close to me kept me right when things weren't going my way."
"I wish the players and staff all the best this season and beyond. I'll always be checking the results and hopefully still come to the odd game."
Tuohy: "Being born in Bristol, and having played for Weston-Super-Mare, I know what #BristolRugby is all about & what it means to the fans."
— Bristol Rugby (@Bristol_RFC) December 6, 2016
"I have a huge hole to fill on Friday nights now but I can't wait for the new challenges that Bristol presents. I was born in Bristol and raised just down the road, which adds to my excitement of going there.
"To the small group of supporters that I got to know well, thanks for everything. I know you know how much it meant for me to play for Ulster.”
