ADAM Hughes’ Newport Gwent Dragons career is over after Bristol signed the wing/centre until the end of the season.

The 23-year-old, who has been linked with a move to Aviva Premiership outfit Exeter, is out of contract this summer and has not been offered a new deal at Rodney Parade.

Hughes played for the Dragons in their LV= Cup defeat at Newcastle last Friday but has been allowed to leave early to boost Bristol in their bid for promotion from the Championship.

The popular back made 80 apprearances since his 2010 debut, scored 15 tries and was named Argus Player of the Year for his efforts in 2010/11.

“I would like to thank all the staff, coaches, players and fans at Rodney Parade that have supported me over the years here at the Dragons,” he said.

“I am looking forward to the new challenge at Bristol and wish the boys here at the Dragons every success.

“I am excited about the challenge of taking on new teams in a new league, alongside a new stadium and fans.”

Bristol have made a host of high-profile signings in their bid to return to the Aviva Premiership – including former Wales scrum-half Dwayne Peel on a bumper deal – and hope Hughes will help them avoid a disastrous playoff failure.

“We’re pleased to add Adam to the squad – he’s young, ambitious and comes with a great pedigree,” said director of rugby Andy Robinson.

“Hughes impressed at the Dragons with his pace and creativity. He offers us something different to the midfield options that we currently have available to us.”