Cornish Pirates

21st April 2009

As one campaign draws to a close, and the Cornish Pirates now prepare for next season's 'Championship', it has been confirmed that two familiar faces will be returning to the far south-west.

	Scrum-half Gavin Cattle, who joined the Pirates from Rotherham in 2004, returns to Cornwall after playing two season's for Llanelli Scarlets. An immensely popular figure, the 29 years old former star is held in high esteem, and he captained the Cornish Pirates side that lifted the EDF Energy National Trophy at Twickenham in April, 2007. Gavin was named in the 'Rugby Times' National One Dream XV in 2006 and also 2007 when he received more votes than any other individual in their respective positions. It was evidence that he was admired throughout the division, and was a just reward for his honesty, 100% work ethic, and the inspiration he gives others.
	Wes Davies is a full-back/wing who first signed for the Pirates from Worcester back in July, 2004. A grandson of the legendary Billy Boston, Wes himself also played rugby league for a spell, with Wigan. Now aged 31, he will join the Pirates from Doncaster, where he has played for the last three years. The leading try-scorer for 'Donny' this season, with 15, two of his tries were impressively scored against the Pirates at Camborne last Sunday.

In announcing these two signings, the Pirates can also confirm two departures, namely Marika Vakacegu and Iva Motusaga.

Fijian international Marika, who joined the Pirates last year from Pertemps Bees, has been one of the stand out players during his brief time in Cornwall. The club's leading try-scorer, on 12, it has been confirmed that he will be stepping up a level to join a Premiership club.

As for 'The Jet', as popular Iva is nicknamed, he and his family will be leaving Cornwall for Australia, from where he is likely to consider his future. Iva has been a great servant of the club, as both an outstanding open-side flanker on the field and as a community-minded person off it.

Speaking with regard to this announcement, Cornish Pirates CEO Rod Coward said:

"We are delighted with our two new signings, both being proven performers at this level, who bring a wealth of experience to the club and who we believe will contribute massively to our efforts next season whilst at the same time helping younger, less experienced players achieve their full potential.

At the same time we regret the departure of Marika and Iva, two great players and good guys. We wish them every success for the future and trust they will always retain fond memories of their time at the Pirates."