Warwickshire sign Essex fast bowler Chris Wright

Chris Wright was on the Middlesex staff before moving to Chelmsford

Warwickshire have signed right-arm fast bowler Chris Wright following his successful loan from Essex last season.

The 26-year-old helped the Bears' battle for the County Championship title with 22 wickets, at an average of 24.31, in their last four matches.

"Chris made a tremendous impact during his short time in our bowling attack," said director of cricket Ashley Giles.

"His five-wicket hauls against Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire were crucial in our late-season charge."

Giles added: "Finishing as runner-up in the 2011 County Championship was a great achievement for this team, despite the final day heartache against Hampshire.

"However, that experience and signing of a player of Chris' calibre will make us a stronger unit in 2012."

Wright joined the Bears on a one-month loan in August before his contract with Essex expired.

After four years on the staff with Middlesex, Wright moved to Chelmsford in 2007, since when he had made 41 first-class appearances for the county.