Parkes makes Tykes move

Gloucester hooker James Parkes has agreed to join relegated Leeds.

The 25-year-old has penned a two-year contract with The Tykes and will now make the drop down to National League One next season and try and help the club achieve immediate promotion back to the top flight.

Parkes has been at Kingsholm for two years but found his opportunities limited last season and has opted to move away from the club in search of more regular action.

The former Saracens man says that he is excited by the chance to try and help Leeds bring Premiership rugby back to Headingley.

"The prospect of coming to Leeds and trying to help the side regain their place in the Premiership is a huge challenge for me and the team and one that I am really looking forward to," Parkes told the club website.

"I want to be part of the squad on a regular basis and hopefully the move to Leeds will give me that chance.

"I came up to Leeds recently and was very impressed by the training facilities and the investment that is obviously going into the club."

Leeds director of rugby Stuart Lancaster was delighted to have sealed the signing of Parkes.

"I am pleased to have bought a player of James quality and potential to the club," said Lancaster.

"Obviously having lost Gordon Bulloch were looking for another experienced hooker for the squad and James fits the bill perfectly.

"I know he is keen to make the most of the opportunity of coming to Leeds and he will give us good competition within the team for next season."