Iain Grieve shocked by Bristol Rugby captaincy.

Grieve was 15 when he joined the Bristol acadamy

Back row forward Iain Grieve says he was "gobsmacked" to be named as the new Bristol rugby captain.

The 23-year-old was appointed last week and replaces scrum-half Jason Spice, who is yet to commit his future to the Championship club.

He told BBC Radio Bristol: "I was gobsmacked and didn't answer straight away when they asked me.

"There's some big shoes to fill but I'm going to try my best as a person and a player for the team."

He added: "I've always wanted to stay at Bristol. I've come up through the academy and the culture of the place and the history of the club is phenomenal.

"Bristol's a place I want to be at and I'm glad I'm staying."

Grieve believes the whole club is now geared up for the new season after the disappointment of losing the play-off final to Exeter Chiefs.

"What happened last year is done and there's nothing we can do about it. It's going to be good now especially for the up and coming youngsters - they will get some game time.

"I'm still learning as a player and a person but I'm excited about what is ahead.

"The players have all been really supportive, everyone's looking forward to the season. We had a disappointing one last year and we want to try to make that better."