London Scottish have added to their already impressive stable of back-row forwards this week by signing highly rated openside flanker Fred Silcock on a one-year contract.

The 24-year-old makes the move across the English Channel from Jersey where he played for two seasons.

Prior to joining Jersey, Silcock made 38 appearances for Loughborough Students, scoring 10 tries in season 2011/12 when they won National League One North.

During his time at Loughborough University, Silcock played A-League rugby for Leicester Tigers as well as Worcester Warriors where he packed down alongside current London Scot and Irish international flanker Neil Best.

Competition in the back-row will be fierce next season with Silcock, Best, Greene King IPA Championship Player of the Year nominee Mark Bright, Chevvy Pennycook and Ben Russell all battling for starting berths.

“Some of the boys in the back-row have formidable reputations and I cannot wait to play with players of that calibre,” Silcock said this week.

“Mark Bright has made an unbelievable impression in the Championship and he is a great person to have captaining the team. I’m looking forward to working alongside him.

“Neil Best is another player with a big personality who will be good to have around the Club.”

He continued: “When I spoke to James Buckland, London Scottish felt like a perfect fit for me.

“The set-up is really good and everyone seems very welcoming.

“I also really like the way London Scottish play and hopefully I can make a real impression next season.”

Head coach James Buckland said: “Fred is an out and out seven who brings with him a strong defensive game and a presence at the breakdown.

“We are very fortunate to have some exceptional back-row forwards at the Club and Fred can take the pressure off the other boys, allowing them to play their natural game.

“He is someone who can make a big impact and I’m excited he has chosen to sign for Scottish.”