Stourbridge Saxons have announced their first signing ahead of their challenge for honours in the National One division next season.

The ambitious Black Country outfit have agreed a deal with former Leicester Tigers, Coventry and Pertemps Bees second row Robbie Hurrell.

The dynamic lock forward lined up for current National One side Cambridge against the Saxons on Saturday, but will make Stourton Park his permanent home from the start of next season.

He said: “There is a lot of potential at Stourbridge and I think that, with a little bit more experience in their side, they would have been up there this season.

“I know they have been unlucky to lose some games and I am looking forward to joining them and challenging next season.”

Hurrell moved to the Black Country after meeting his future wife while at Loughborough University – she is currently head of department at Pedmore College – and his arrival at the Saxons will see him link up with close friend Liam Wordley.

The 33-year-old said: “I know a number of the players at the club, particularly Liam who was a teammate at Bees and also at Henley.

“It seemed inevitable that I would complete the loop and play alongside Liam at Stourbridge at some point. It is a fantastic club with excellent facilities and they now have the ambition to progress.

“There is also an excellent coaching set-up which is a huge draw to any player. Even at this stage in my career I want to develop as a player and I think I will be able to do that at Stourbridge just like I have improved as a player at Cambridge.

“I still have a lot to give and believe I am in my best condition and playing the best rugby of my career.”

Hurrell was called up for England Counties along with Stourbridge’s Tom Jarvis earlier this season, but missed out on a trip to Dublin with a knee injury.

Mitchell was delighted to unveil Stourbridge’s new second row.

He said: “The signing of Robbie Hurrell is a huge boost to our squad. I have known him since the beginning of his playing days and have followed his playing career closely.

“Robbie is, without question, the best No 5 lock at this level and would credit any championship side.

“He will bring presence, physicality and experience to our pack and I look forward to working with him over the coming season.”