Biggs is Leeds' all-time top tryscorer with 52 in 96 starts

Newcastle Falcons have announced the signing of Leeds Carnegie wing Tom Biggs on a one-year deal.

Biggs, 24, is the club's all-time top try scorer and director of rugby Steve Bates believes his capture is a statement of intent for the Falcons.

"The signing of top players like Tom provides a mark of where our ambition is right now," said Bates.

"Our supporters should be excited by what he and all of our other new signings will bring to this club."

Biggs said: "It was tough to leave, because Leeds is the only professional club I've ever played for.

"But the time was right for a new challenge, and Newcastle Falcons is a club on the up right now.

606: DEBATE Can Biggs impress at Kingston Park?

"I know Steve Bates well from the England Saxons set-up, and his being at the club was a big factor because I know he is a coach who can really get the best out of me and all the other players."

"From a personal point of view, the main thing was that Falcons didn't try to rush me - they knew I had a big decision to make and they gave me the time to go through that process without any hassle."

The move heralds a string of positive signings at the Falcons, with Kiwi star Jimmy Gopperth and Samoan flanker Filipo Levi hoping to replace the departures of England centre Jamie Noon and utility back Tom May.

We are working hard behind the scenes to add further quality to the squad in a number of positions Newcastle Falcons coach Steve Bates

And Bates is confident England Saxons wing Biggs can have an impact in the Premiership next season after a prolific campaign in the National League.

"Tom gives us a massive try-scoring threat on the wing," he said.

"He is an extremely talented runner with an exceptional scoring record, he will cause problems for defences and provides serious cutting edge to what is shaping up to be a very strong squad for next season.

"This latest signing does not signal the end of our recruitment campaign, and we are working hard behind the scenes to add further quality to the squad in a number of positions."

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