The talented centre, is the first member in Clifton Rugby's long awaited HPU (High Performance Unit), which has been established for the first time this season, arriving from his native Sydney Australia where he was with the NSW Waratahs 'A' and ARU Academy.

Meakes is a former Australian U20's and an Australia 7's International but who also holds a British passport, and was talent identified via Clifton's pro rugby network.

Clifton DOR Darren LLoyd explained the HPU is an exciting development for us as a club. "Clifton is renowned as a proven pathway for producing and developing talent. We have relationships and often work extensively with all the pro clubs in the region and this program allows us to research and target specific talented players who are good enough to go onto highest level given the right development, opportunity and shop window"

He added "...It also allows us to bolster our own playing ranks whilst the pro clubs get the chance to evaluate players that they may miss otherwise"

"Bill Meakes has gone on loan to Gloucester, he is a very talented player and a great guy, and although I can't say I wouldn't still like to have him in our ranks tomorrow at Cornish Al Blacks, undoubtedly our management team and the whole club here at Clifton wish Bill the very best"

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