STEVE Gorvett has confirmed he has held discussions with Bath over a potential player-sharing agreement – but played down fears Bristol Rugby will be reduced to "feeder club" status in any arrangement.

Bath chief executive Nick Blofeld this week opened the door to the possibility of some of his club's players signing dual registration agreements with Bristol for next season.

And Gorvett, his Memorial Stadium counterpart, revealed he has held talks with the Guinness Premiership club over loaning some of their players for next season's Championship campaign.

Five players have left Bristol since their play-off final defeat to Exeter 17 days ago – and several others are considering their futures after being told to take 50 per cent pay-cuts.

Dual-registration signings from Bath could be used to solve some of Bristol's immediate squad issues, with the Premiership club eager for more of their promising youngsters to gain regular first-team rugby at a decent level.

Gorvett said: "I definitely think it makes sense to work with Bath for at least next season – and there is an opportunity there for us to do that.

"We could give some valuable game-time to some of their academy players, which is better than them sitting around not playing first-team rugby.

"I think it obviously makes sense to both parties. There are some discussions going on, albeit at a very early stage at the moment. But it definitely makes sense."

And Gorvett has moved to allay fears that Bristol would be forced to take on the role of Bath's feeder club in any agreement.

"We would certainly not be a feeder club for Bath, no way," said Gorvett. "But I think it is fair to say that, to develop the strength of rugby in the West Country, Bath are as keen as us on getting Bristol back into the Premiership."