Perrys existing contract gave the club the option of extending his stay at the Recreation Ground by a further year, and they have chosen to do just that.

The British Lion enjoyed a meteoric rise up the rugby ranks, making his Bath debut in 1997 - the same year he made his England debut as an 18-year-old.

He won 36 caps until 2001 when a wretched catalogue of back, groin and hamstring injuries began to hinder his career and he has not made an international appearance since.

But Perry underwent pioneering surgery last month to cure a chronic groin problem and his recent performances suggest he has made a full recovery.

I am extremely pleased that the club has taken up the option of the additional year on my contract, said Perry.

I now feel that my injury problems are behind me now and I am enjoying being involved at what is such an exciting stage of the season.

My match fitness is coming game by game and I am looking forward to playing my part in the last few games of the season as we challenge for the Premiership title.

Bath director of rugby Jack Rowell added: We are delighted for Matt that he has come through great adversity to be playing again after career-threatening injuries.

It has been a big relief to Matt and us all to see that the early signs are that his recent operation has put an end to his injury problems and we are sure that he will go from strength to strength from here on.