The signature of rising England hooker Rob Webber is vindication of Bath Rugby's on and off-field plans, say the club's coaches.

The 25-year-old Wasps front- rower, who will make his international debut if he comes off the bench against Scotland on Saturday, has penned a three-year deal with Bath.

First-team coach Brad Davis said: "We're delighted that Rob thinks Bath is the best place for him to play his rugby.

"It's a sign we are getting things right off the pitch and, slowly but surely, it's coming together on the pitch as well.

"Signing Rob continues to bring the age profile down and he is a dynamic player, which is what we're looking for.

"Whether it's in attack or defence, physically he's very committed. He has good speed around the place and he's going to provide competition for that number two shirt."

Webber, a former schoolboy javelin champion from Yorkshire, has represented England at all age-group levels from under-16s to under-21s.

"I have loved my time at Wasps but it is time to move on and I am genuinely excited at the prospect of working with the squad and coaches at Bath," he said.

"There seems to be a great ethos developing at the club, both on and off the field, and it's one I'm looking forward to becoming part of."

As revealed in the Chronicle last month, Webber will be a direct replacement for Pieter Dixon, who is set to return to South Africa after not being offered a new deal by Bath.

Webber will vie for the number two shirt along with fellow EPS member Lee Mears, who is contracted at The Rec until at least 2013, while Bath's coaching team are also keen to keep Ross Batty at The Rec beyond this season.