Bristol Bears retain Marston-Mulhearn, Phillips and Herring for 2026/27 season

Bristol Bears have secured the futures of three key players — Rownita Marston-Mulhearn, Holly Phillips and Jenny Herring — ahead of the 2026/27 season, the club confirmed this week.

Marston-Mulhearn’s renewal is the most notable of the trio. The 28-year-old No.8 will enter her 11th season at Ashton Gate, making her one of the longest-serving players in the club’s history. A twice-capped England international, she spent much of the 2025/26 campaign in rehabilitation after sustaining an ACL injury last year but has since returned to action.

“This club has supported me so much in my career but even more in the past season while going through ACL rehab,” Marston-Mulhearn said. “Bears is my home, and I love being a one-club woman. Whether we are winning, losing or drawing, there is no huddle I’d rather be in.”

Holly Phillips, who joined Bristol in 2020, brings international experience to the front row. The versatile Canada international can operate at both hooker and tighthead prop and made her Test debut against South Africa last July. Her 2025/26 season has been disrupted by injury, but the club has moved quickly to retain her services.

“From the moment I arrived I’ve felt welcomed by the players and staff, and it’s a club that has quickly become home for me,” Phillips said. “I’m excited about the direction we’re heading in.”

Back-row forward Jenny Herring rounds out the trio of re-signings. Herring has made 10 appearances for Bristol this season under head coach Lawson and has established herself as a consistent contributor in the squad.

“This club has helped me grow a huge amount,” Herring said. “The environment we have here pushes everyone to improve every day and I’m looking forward to continuing to contribute to the team.”

The three renewals signal Bristol’s intent to maintain continuity as they plan for next season, with a core group of experienced players now committed to the club’s ongoing project.