The 28-year-old rejoins his former club after six years in the North-East, with Falcons director of rugby, Steve Bates, saying: "James goes with our best wishes.

"He has always been an excellent professional in his attitude to playing and training, and we wish him every success back at Leicester.

"With the emergence of Micky Young last season and Hall Charlton having signed a new contract we remain very well catered for at scrum half, and we will look to bring in the appropriate level of cover for when Hall and Micky are unavailable."

The Falcons also confirmed that centre Joe Shaw has left the club, by mutual consent.

Director of rugby, Steve Bates, said: "Joe has always been a very positive presence around the club, but with limited opportunities for game time last season we both felt that a fresh start was the best option.

"As well as his efforts on the field Joe has also been a fantastic ambassador for the club with his outstanding work in the community, and I'm sure all Falcons supporters will join me in wishing him all the best for the future."