GRANT SHIELLS has left Newcastle Falcons to join Aviva Premiership rivals Bath.

Having joined Falcons in 2009, Shiells became a prominent figure in the front row during the 2011-12 season.

However, a string of injuries limited the 24-year-old prop’s involvement in the last two campaigns, and he only made two senior starts last term, with a further five appearances coming from the bench.

In total, Shiells, a Scotland international at under-19, under-20 and ‘A’ level, made 97 appearances for Newcastle.

“Grant is a talented young prop who has regularly shown the strength of his game during his time with us,” said Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards. “During recent years Grant has been troubled by injury, but I hope he stays injury-free for the seasons ahead.”

Shiells added: “I’m really excited to be joining Bath – they’ve got a great coaching team and are clearly building towards the future. There are some very talented players in the squad and I’m looking forward to getting involved and developing myself as a player.”