Scotland international Jamie Hodgson has joined Bristol Bears on a two-month loan from Edinburgh. 

The lock has featured in six of Edinburgh's first seven matches of the United Rugby Championship, and started the win over Stormers last month. 

But with Sam Skinner now fit again after a knee injury and Marshall Sykes enjoying a good start to the season, Hodgson, who has five full Scotland caps, has been allowed to move to Ashton Gate.

Bristol Bears director of rugby Pat Lam said: “With injuries in the second row to Joe Batley, Josh Caulfield, Steele Barker and George Taylor, we’re pleased to be able to bring in a player of Jamie’s quality and experience.

“As we head into a very busy period in the Champions Cup and Premiership, we’re going to be tested across our smaller squad, so it was important to bring in some reinforcements in that position."

Edinburgh, meanwhile, said the move was designed to give Hodgson, who has five Scotland caps, more game-time while the club "looks to assess the development of its younger locks".

Head coach Sean Everitt said: “We believe this is a great opportunity for Jamie to get further game time and it also gives us the chance to further assess the development of young locks, like Rob Carmichael, who continues to train well and put his hand up for selection.

“With Sam back and fully fit, and Glen set to return soon, our second-row options continue to strengthen as we enter an important month of rugby.

“We wish Jamie the very best for this spell at Bristol.”

Hodgson will link up with ex-Edinburgh team-mate Bill Mata, who made a try-scoring debut for Bristol in their win over Harlequins at the weekend. 

He could make his Bristol debut when they host Leinster in the Champions Cup on Sunday.