MARTIN Purdy has left Wasps to sign for Bath.

The 25-year-old lock has signed on a one-year deal.

He made his Wasps debut in 2003 and has played 51 times for the club.

He said: "I've been at Wasps since leaving school, and since then I've had a fantastic time at the club.

"Wasps has been my first and only senior rugby club so far, and of course it will be hard to go.

"Part of me will always think of myself as a Wasp, and I'll miss all the players, staff and supporters I've met over the last few years here."

At Bath, Purdy will have to fight international back rows Steve Borthwick and Danny Grewcock for a place in the team.

He said: "I'm very excited.

"Next year is World Cup year so hopefully I will play a decent amount of rugby if those two are selected for England, and so be able to challenge for a place when they are back.

"It is also good that I will be coming to a club where they spend a lot of time on the lineout, which will improve my own game and give me the chance to make a wider impression."