GLOUCESTER will kick off their new Gallagher Premiership Rugby season at home on Saturday September 1 against Northampton Saints after the new fixtures were announced on Friday morning.

However, the match will kick-off at 2pm rather than 3pm due to television coverage.

And the Cherry and Whites go straight into battle with their big rivals Bath in the following match as they make the trip to the Recreation Ground on Saturday September 8 with a 4.30pm kick-off.

There is also another West Country derby to follow as Gloucester will entertain newly-promoted Bristol Bears on Friday September 14 (7.45pm start) in a clash which is sure to draw a huge Kingsholm crowd.

But they face a huge test on September 23 (3pm) when they travel to Allianz Park and a tie with Saracens.

Gloucester end September with a home clash against Harlequins.

The big Christmas games will see them travel to Newcastle Falcons on the weekend starting December 21, and they will then be home to Sale Sharks after Christmas in the days of December 28/29/30.