GLOUCESTER Rugby has announced they will be taking on Aviva Premiership rivals Bath Rugby and Exeter Chiefs in an exciting pre-season tournament.

With the start of the 2015-16 season delayed whilst the Rugby World Cup is under way, it will give the teams an opportunity to get match ready and should delight league fans.

The three teams will meet on a round robin basis and with Kingsholm being used for World Cup pool matches at this time, Gloucester have confirmed that they will play their home fixtures at The Memorial Stadium in Bristol.

CEO Stephen Vaughan explained the thinking behind the tournament and the temporary move to Bristol.

"Everyone at Gloucester Rugby and within the city is extremely excited at the prospect of hosting four Rugby World Cup pool matches at Kingsholm,” he said.

“However, it has posed us a challenge in terms of our preseason preparations.

"Even though the start of the Aviva Premiership season is delayed, we still need to prepare as usual and that means competitive rugby.

“So, we're delighted that we've been able to organise this mini tournament with Bath and Exeter.

"The nature of our agreement with Rugby World Cup 2015 means that we're not able to use Kingsholm for our home matches.

“We've explored various options, but are pleased to confirm that we will play those games at the Memorial Stadium.

"Fortunately 'The Mem' is handily placed for a lot of our supporters and although we fully appreciate it may be slightly further for some, I know people will understand our reasoning for having to relocate our fixtures.

"Bristol Rovers have been fantastic through the process and I'm sure we'll make it feel like home when the games are played.

"We hope to see as many of our fantastic supporters down there cheering us on, as well as any local rugby fans who have a desire to watch Premiership sides in action.”

Kick off dates and times and ticketing information will be confirmed soon via the Gloucester Rugby website.