Falcons land a big fish from Scotland
Newcastle Falcons revealed on Friday that they have signed Scotland scrumhalf Rory Lawson on a two-year deal as the recruitment drive continues in the North East.
Lawson is the Falcons' third signing this week after international lock forwards Carlo del Fava and Scott MacLeod penned deals with the club. And with further signings to be unveiled within the next week, there is a real buzz in the region at present.
Lawson, 31, who brings a wealth of experience to the table, having being capped 30 times by Scotland, joins from Gloucester.
The Dunfermline-born No.9 made his international debut against Australia in November 2006, and soon pulled on the navy blue jersey for his Six Nations bow against England at Twickenham in 2007.
Lawson went on to play in the 2007 World Cup and has established himself as one of Europe's top scrumhalves, captaining Scotland on five occasions, most recently at the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand.
The former Edinburgh man has demonstrated his class at domestic level with Gloucester since he joined in 2006, helping the Cherry and Whites lift the LV= Cup and reach the Aviva Premiership play-offs in 2011.
Lawson has recently been named in the Barbarians squad for their three-match summer tour against England, Ireland and Wales.
"I'm really looking forward to joining up with the Falcons this year," Lawson said.
"Newcastle's form towards the end of the season was strong and there is a lot we can build upon for next year to move the club forward.
"Having met with Semore Kurdi it is clear that the Falcons have significant resource and intent to build a successful club in the North East, and the appointment of Dean Richards can only enhance that.
"I want to thank the supporters at Gloucester for their fantastic support over the last six seasons. I greatly enjoyed my time at Gloucester and look forward to turning out for the Barbarians at Kingsholm at the end of the month," he added.
Commercial director Duncan Edward said: "Our febrile supporters are really getting behind the club and the commitment we have experienced from our fans is amazing.
"They are demonstrating to the rugby world that they want top-class rugby in the region. Our new signings show that we are serious about moving up the Premiership table or winning the Championship in style.
"The squad will benefit from experienced internationals, who can also offer support and advice to our younger squad members.
"We can only thank Semore for his commitment and ask for the regions' public to repay that and get Kingston Park rocking."