CORNISH Pirates have confirmed the signing of former Penryn lock Toby Freeman for next season.

The 29 year-old is an experienced Championship player who joins from Nottingham, having had spells at Exeter Chiefs, Spanish side Ampo Ordizia and Rotherham Titans.

In total he has made 79 appearances for the ‘Green & Whites’ of Nottingham, having made his debut in January, 2014.

Current players Alex Day, Tom Channon and wing Alex O'Meara have also signed new contracts, taking the squad number to 19.

The 23-year-old Day, and O’Meara, aged 24, have made 52 and 25 games respectively in their two years with the Pirates. As for hooker Channon, who joined the club from Bristol in 2013, he is just three games short of the 100 games milestone.

Coach Gavin Cattle said: “Since joining from Northampton, scrum-half Alex has been a consistent performer for us these past two seasons, and has shown that he is one of the top 9s in the Championship. He is also a good character within the squad, and as a bit of a joker can lift the mood, which is at times important.

“Wing Alex has been one of the most improved players this season, who has worked really hard on the nuts and bolts of his game. His reward has been making a number of starts for us in the Championship, whilst his challenge now is to establish himself and kick on to be a stand out winger.

“Among Tom’s attributes, he gives us a good ball carrying option and he always plays with intensity. Someone who wears his heart on his sleeve, it is obvious to all that he is very passionate about his rugby.”

Finally, and speaking also on behalf of co-coach Alan Paver, Gavin is really pleased to have signed Toby Freeman, saying:

“Toby is an experienced Championship campaigner. A Cornishman who has impressed us, he is renowned for his work rate, physicality and passion, and we know he is keen to bring these traits with him.”

As for Toby, he has commented:

“The challenge that awaits at the Cornish Pirates is one I am really looking forward to. Offering me the chance to play under what is a great coaching setup and with a hardworking group of lads is what has drawn me down there, and I hope to add all I can to the group. The chance to play in front of my friends and family back home where rugby began for me, as well as in front of the passionate Mennaye faithful, is also very exciting.”

Toby added:

“My thanks are also expressed to Nottingham Rugby for all they have done for me during my time at the club. Coaches, players and supporters alike have made my time here both enjoyable and memorable, and I wish everyone all the best.”