Chris Henry is among a quartet to sign new Ulster deals

Back-row forward Chris Henry has signed a three-year deal with Ulster

Back-row forward Chris Henry is one of several key Ulster players to have signed a contract extension.

The Ballymena number eight, who has five Ireland 'A' caps, is to stay at Ravenhill for a further three years.

Hooker Nigel Brady, flanker Willie Faloon and centre Ian Whitten have re-signed on two-year contracts.

"The management team at Ulster are delighted that we have re-signed key home-grown talent to the squad," said operations director David Humphreys.

"Our focus is to build on the foundations set and mould a powerful Ulster side, consisting mainly of indigenous players with a number of high-profile overseas signings.

"It has been great to see young players coming through the ranks and making their mark.

"We are close to completing the squad for the 2010/2011 season, and aim to announce most of our contract news over the next few weeks."

Academy scrum-half Ian Porter, centre/wing Nevin Spence, prop Adam Macklin and prop Paddy McAllister have all signed one-year contracts, as has Belfast Harlequins player Neil McComb.