Falcons sign Tongan prop

Newcastle Falcons confirmed the signing of Tongan Prop Taione Vea from London Welsh.

Vea, 26, will join the Falcons on a two-year deal - in time for the 2015/16 season.

The powerful prop received his first international cap against Japan in the 2013 Pacific Nations Cup and has gone on to make another six appearances for his country.

Auckland-born Vea began his career with New Zealand side North Harbour, before moving to the Premiership first with Wasps and later with London Welsh.

"I've spoken with [Falcons Director of Rugby] Dean [Richards] about his plans for Newcastle Falcons and his vision on where the club is going and it sounds like something I want to be involved with," Vea said.

"I'm still learning a lot and want to get more Premiership experience so I'm looking forward to doing that at Newcastle Falcons."

Vea will move to the North East in the off-season in preparation for the start of the 2015 season, although there are a number of familiar faces already at the club.

"I've played with Uili Kolo'ofai and although I've never played with Tane Takulua we know of each other from home. I've played with Richard Mayhew in New Zealand too though; he was about during my first season and really looked after me during that time, he's a good guy.

"I've heard the North East is a great place to live and that there's a lovely group of people up there so I'm looking forward to it, although I'm not too sure about the cold - after two years in London I still haven't quite acclimatised to the UK weather yet!"

Vea moves to the Falcons after a year at London Welsh, which has seen him appear 25 times for the Exiles to date, scoring tries against both London Irish and Northampton Saints.

Newcastle Falcons Director of Rugby Dean Richards said: "We're pleased to be able to add Taione to the squad for the next season. He's a quality prop who is a great scrummager and equally strong on the loose work too.

"As a Tongan international he brings a powerful and skilled head to our front row, although he's also a very humble guy who I know will fit in well with our squad."