JAMES Dun knew exactly what Bristol’s supporters were going through earlier this season when the Bears became stuck in a losing run.
The second row supported the club as a boy and was at the Memorial Stadium in 2010 when they lost the Championship play-off final to Exeter.
“I remember the Chiefs’ fans singing their chants and I was crying in the stand at the end,” said the 24-year old Dun, who joined Bristol when he was 13 and last month signed a contract extension. I can relate to what fans go through. I grew up watching Bristol and I have an incredibly proud feeling every time I pull on the jersey, something I dreamed of doing since the age of nine. I am privileged to be here.”
Dun spent last season on loan, helping the Reds snatch the Championship title from Ealing Trailfinders before being wound up weeks into the current campaign when he had returned to Bristol.
“The move to Jersey came at the right time for me,” said Dun. “I got game time in a tough environment and it was topped off by winning the league. I learned a lot, especially about robustness and dealing with injuries.
“I was greateful to play in so many games and it was a big season for me. They saw me as a back rower and it gave me another string to my bow – the more positions you cover the better.
“What happened to the club was horrible and heartbreaking. People found themselves in difficult positions having deserved a shot at the Premiership and fans had no team to support. A number messaged me to say they would be following the Bears and I hope something can be done.”
When the season started, Dun had made 13 appearances but he has now made more than double that with his start in Friday night’s victory against Northampton taking his tally for the campaign to 16 in all competitions.
“It has been my best season at the club and it has been pleasing to be involved most weeks,” said Dun whose father, Andy, belo
