THE consequences of missing out on promotion have begun to hit Worcester Rugby Club hard with the departure of two big name English stars.

Andy Higgins and Chris Simpson-Daniel are both expected to sign for Bristol next week in a double deal which could spark a mass exodus at Sixways.

Higgins, the 19-year-old centre, was expected to move to rugby's top flight after Worcester failed to win National One and promotion this season, but it is the departure of scrum-half Simpson-Daniel which will surprise many supporters.

The number nine endured a frustrating season after suffering a nagging knee injury and then a back problem caused by a car crash.

However, with a year left on his contract he was expected to return to the club he joined from Wakefield to spearhead a new promotion push in September.

The 22-year-old though had a get-out clause in his contract, which was activated once when Worcester missed out on the title.

"I've spoke to Dean Ryan and we are very close to a deal. I obviously know him from my time in Newcastle and he has been following me since I left.

"I need to be back in the Premiership playing against the best week-in, week- out -- that is where I want to be.

"Dean has guaranteed me a certain amount of starts and I'm excited about the move.

"You get a bit stale playing in National One because, with the greatest of respect to sides in that league, the overall standard is poor compared to the Premiershire."

Simpson-Daniel fears Worcester have not learned from the mistakes of years gone by when, after one season, there has been a heavy turn over of players.

"It's happening all over again and Worcester will have to start next season trying to build up team spirit with a completely new squad.

"Many players will go in the next few weeks and the club have brought this on themselves because they have left negotiations too late.

"There was talk of continuity at the end of the season but the playing staff will be completely different in September and the club will be back to square one," said Simpson-Daniel.

"It is sad because Worcester have so much potential."