Championship club Bristol have announced the return of their former head coach Dean Ryan to the Memorial Stadium.
Ex-England international Ryan, whose coaching career also included a five-year spell in charge at Gloucester, has been appointed as a club consultant.
The 46-year-old will remain his primary role as a television rugby pundit, working with Bristol for approximately one day a week alongside the club's directors and head coach Liam Middleton.
"I believe the appointment of Dean as a consultant to the club will be a great asset for us," Bristol chairman Chris Booy said.
"I am confident Dean's vast experience and knowledge of rugby will provide a real benefit throughout the 2012/13 RFU Championship season."
Bristol reached the title play-offs last season, but were beaten over two legs by Cornish Pirates, who then lost to eventual champions and Aviva Premiership newcomers London Welsh.
