Bristol Rugby have signed former Bath Colts back-rower Jamie Miller from Coventry.

The 22-year-old has signed a short-term contract to help the club deal with a back-row injury crisis. Bertrand Bedes, James Merriman and James Phillips are all currently sidelined.

No stranger to the West Country, Miller started his rugby career with Bath Colts before progressing to the Bath Academy. He made one appearance in the former EDF Energy Cup before signing for Coventry in 2007.

Over his three years with the Midlands side, Miller – originally from London – made 65 appearances.

He said: "Having the chance to play for a club like Bristol is a big moment for me.

"It's a massive opportunity to further my career and, hopefully, help Bristol in their bid for promotion.

"Obviously the financial instability at Coventry was a factor in my decision, but in truth it was a fairly straightforward one. Like all professional rugby players, I want to play at the top level and I have a chance to do that with Bristol.

"I'm now looking forward to getting stuck in with the club and hopefully contributing towards a successful season."

Miller is head coach Paul Hull's third signing of the season, and Hull said: "Jamie is a flanker who can play right across the back row.

"He will give us much needed cover and support in a position that is very attritional.

"We nearly signed Jamie at the start of this season and having the opportunity to sign him at this crucial time has given us a real boost.

"With the long-term injury to Bertrand Bedes, and with some short-term injuries to James Merriman and James Phillips, signing Jamie was a sensible acquisition and we are all looking forward to working with him."