There is a strong Bristol connection at Birmingham & Solihull, with former Memorial Stadium players Mark Woodrow and Simon Hunt among the Bees' key performers.

The club are also coached by former Bath back-rower Russell Earnshaw, who lives in Bristol.

Last season's National League Two (now National One) champions, Bees made a losing return to the second tier of English rugby last weekend, going down 33-10 at Plymouth Albion.

But they are positive about this weekend's fixture and aim to attract a record attendance of 2,000 to Sharmans Cross Road.

The previous best was 1,700 for the visit of Harlequins during the 2005-06 season – and head coach Earnshaw is eager for Bristol's supporters to swell the crowd this weekend.

"We're trying to get over 2,000 people in this weekend, which would create a really good atmosphere," said Earnshaw. "We have been doing a lot of work and are trying to take the club further into the community. Hopefully we'll have a really good turnout this weekend."

Earnshaw watched Bristol's 28-23 victory over London Welsh last weekend – and understands exactly how much pressure Paul Hull's side are under this season.

"It's not an easy position for Paul Hull when every week you are favourites to win," he said.

"London Welsh might not play that well again this season. But we definitely go into Saturday's game as underdogs."