As Tim crosses 'La Manche' to join Bourgoin, heading in the opposite direction across the English Channel will be 27 yr old Bertrand Bedes, a Frenchman who will arrive in Cornwall from Pau.

Bertrand, who has also played for Narbonne, will be the second player joining the Cornish Pirates from the French Pro D2 side, alongside 24 times capped Canadian lock Mike Burak.

Commenting on his forthcoming move to Cornwall, Bertrand said:
"Having always played in France, I felt that it was about time to discover a new culture and a new style of rugby. English clubs are much more professional in terms of weight training etc., and I wanted to discover that for myself.

My teammate Mike Burak is also moving to the Pirates, which will help me settle, and I've also spoken to Nicolas Sestaret - moving from Plymouth to Exeter - who told me a lot of good things about the south-west and also about the Pirates.

Coming from Montpelier in France, which is by the coast, it was important for me to find a club that is by the sea and I can't wait to get over and start pre-season."

Surprisingly, Bertrand is likely to be the first Frenchman to wear the Pirates colours, and most certainly in the professional era. He is described as being "brave, powerful, and friendly" , a "Chabal-like figure" who will undoubtedly be immensely popular with supporters.