Newcastle Falcons lock James Hudson to join Gloucester in the summer

Hudson, 31, started his career with Bath but moved to London Irish and then Newcastle and he captained the Falcons for two seasons.

Gloucester coach Nigel Davies said: "I'm delighted that James has agreed to join Gloucester. He's a proven Premiership performer and a very shrewd line-out operator.

"Talking to Nigel Davies, I was excited about his plans for the future for Gloucester and my potential role within that"
James Hudson

"He's also very mobile for a big man, which will suit the way we try and play the game. He will also bring experience and leadership qualities to the squad, which will be valuable assets. I'm very much looking forward to him arriving for pre-season."

Hudson admitted leaving Newcastle - who are favourites to win promotion back to the Aviva Premiership this season - will be a wrench.

Committed

"I've enjoyed my time hugely with the Falcons. They've been a massive part of my career, and I'm fully committed to playing my part in helping them regain their Premiership status before I leave," he said.

"However, I felt that now was the time for a new challenge. I've always enjoyed playing at Kingsholm as an away player, it's a fabulous stadium with a passionate crowd.

"And talking to Nigel Davies, I was excited about his plans for the future for Gloucester and my potential role within that. It was something that I decided I definitely wanted to be part of.

"My priority now though is to finish what we've started at the Falcons and, hopefully, I'll be facing Newcastle as a Gloucester player in the Premiership next season."

Newcastle chief Dean Richards said: "I'm sure I speak on behalf of everyone at the club in wishing James all the very best with his next career move.

"James has been an integral part of the club during his time here, and a great servant who now has his sights firmly set on helping Newcastle Falcons bounce back to the Premiership."