Fearn agrees new Falcons deal

The 22-year-old made his Premiership debut against Leicester at Welford Road and also featured in the Falcons' Amlin Challenge Cup campaign.

Head coach Alan Tait said: "Darren Fearn is a talented prop who has a good ball carry and will add further steel to our already strong pack. It is important to keep players like Darren at the club as we look to move forward."

Fearn added: "I am really pleased to have signed a new contract at the club and hopefully I can get a good run of games next season as I continue my rugby education in the north east.

"There is a very professional set-up here with a lot of exciting things going to happen in the future. I am enjoying the lifestyle, facilities and the training that goes with being a professional rugby player.

"Ultimately I am pleased to have extended my contract at the club and I have to continue to improve my game."