The Cornish Pirates squad figure for next season continues to grow, following an announcement that three more players will again be on board for next season.

The latest trio announced are all backs, and each has signed a one-year contract. They are fly-half Laurence May, wing Kyle Moyle, and scrum-half Mike Pope.

Barnstaple-born Laurence, aged 22, has been the club’s top point scorer for the past two seasons. He made his debut in 2014 whilst dual-registered with Exeter Chiefs, and has since quietly showed a steely determination that has seen him develop into a fine player. To date he has made 69 appearances for the club.

Kyle, who is a product of Penzance & Newlyn RFC’s youth section, first made an appearance for the Cornish Pirates in 2012, when he came off the bench and confidently showed some good touches in a 30-10 points British & Irish Cup win away to Swansea. Injuries have at times disrupted his progress, but when fully the now 24-year-old has proven himself a scintillating runner who has scored some super tries.

As for former Bournemouth and England Students player Mike, aged 26, who also represented Exeter Chiefs during his time at university, he has proven a very sharp performer since joining the Pirates in 2013. Besides playing at scrum-half, Mike has also featured on the wing, and in total has made 68 appearances.

By naming three more players to have signed new contracts for the club, the squad figure presently confirmed by the Cornish Pirates for next season stands at 15. In early days it is a healthy and growing number, with more such announcements to follow in the coming weeks.

Coach Gavin Cattle said: “All three individuals have developed as players and Laurence is now one of the standout out 10s in the Championship. We are really pleased to have him on board and look forward to him taking his game to the next level."

Speaking with particular reference to Kyle and Mike, Gavin added: “Despite his young age Kyle is starting to develop into an off field leader, and as an ever present he has also played a central role in the back three.

“Mike too always gives 100 per cent and can be relied on, and his versatility in a small squad is essential.”