John Hawkins: Newcastle Falcons sign second-rower from Jersey Reds

John Hawkins made 47 first team appearances for Bristol Bears prior to his exit from the club at the end of last season

Newcastle Falcons have signed second-rower John Hawkins from former Championship side Jersey Reds until the end of the 2024-25 season.

The 26-year-old had joined Jersey this summer ahead of this season but now moves to the north east after Jersey ceased trading in September.

"It's been a really difficult time for everyone associated with Jersey Reds," Hawkins told the Falcons' website.

"If you'd spoken to me last week I wouldn't have expected to be here."

Hawkins came through Northampton Saints' academy and went on to join Bristol Bears where he made 47 appearances before joining Jersey this summer.

"I enjoyed my brief time on the island before the events of last week," he added.

"I love a line-out, and I guess a lot of my game is basically just the horrible unseen work. I'll just get my head down and do the bits that people don't want to do, which will hopefully be to the benefit of the team."