JIMMY Lowes admits he is disappointed to lose James Donaldson but has wished him all the best for his impending move to Hull KR.

Donaldson has progressed through the ranks at Bradford but will end his six-year spell when he joins the Robins on a two-year deal.

The Cumbrian back-rower turned down an offer from the Bulls to stay at Odsal as he was keen to continue in Super League.

Head coach Lowes said: “I’m pretty disappointed but I understand why James has gone, of course.

“The lads have got to make a decision based on their own feelings and thoughts and he’s certainly a player I wanted to keep.

“But he’s been open and honest about what his aspirations are and you’ve got to respect that.

“I respect him as a bloke and he’s made the switch to Hull Kingston Rovers, so good luck to him. I hope he does well and fulfils all his ambitions and goals.”

Former Hull KR player Dave Petersen looks set to be a straight replacement for Donaldson at loose forward next year when he arrives on a one-year deal from Queensland Cup outfit Mackay Cutters.

“We wanted to keep James, who is unquestionably a good player with some great attributes, but we’ve got Dave coming in now,” added Lowes.

“That wasn’t to replace James but to challenge him. However, we are pleased with how our squad is coming together but also respect the wishes of those who want to move on.”

Lowes, who said he expected to complete his recruitment by the start of pre-season, admitted that Elliot Kear’s future at the club was uncertain.

The Wales winger, who has spent the past three seasons with the Bulls, went on trial with Aviva Premiership outfit London Welsh last weekend and scored a try in their 64-0 win at Henley.

Lowes added: “Elliot asked if he could go down there for a bit of a trial at London Welsh, who got promoted last season as I well know from my time with Leeds Carnegie.

“He asked permission to do that and that’s fine. If it ends up coming off then it would be a fantastic move for him.”

The Bulls are back in action at home to Hull on Sunday and Lowes said: “We’re looking forward to it.

“Having last weekend has freshened the lads up and they’ve had a couple of tough days’ training. We’re ready to crack on again now.”