NEWCASTLE flanker Richard Mayhew has revealed the Falcons are plotting to dazzle with speed on their return to J.P. Morgan Asset Management Premiership Rugby 7s Series next month at Franklin's Gardens.

Following relegation the Falcons were absent from last year's tournament but are one of the most successful team in its three-year history - avenging their final defeat against Saracens in 2010 by beating them 31-21 a year later.

And though some triumphant old faces will return, Mayhew believes there will be an emphasis on pace as the youngsters look to strut their stuff ahead of the new Aviva Premiership season.

"When we won it 2011 we didn't have lots of raw pace as were a group of guys who worked really hard and gave their all - more of a group of grafters," said the 28-year-old.

"We wanted to just express ourselves and have a good time and obviously the results just took care of themselves.

"This year could be slightly different as we're mixing old faces in with the younger guys so there's a chance to see who can step up.

"I haven't seen some of the younger guys play too much to be honest with you, but I know we have lots of speed this time in the likes of Joel Hodgson and Chris Harris, who are ones to look out for as they can really run.

"It's hard to gauge if anyone broke through into the 15s from their performances last time but I think it helped Mark Wilson and Will Welch - they played last time and did pretty well, Chris Pilgrim was a regular but I remember him having a really good tournament.

"But it's really exciting to be back, I think the boys were missing it a bit last year and they can't wait to get playing as it's a great run-out ahead of the new season."

Newcastle return to the Aviva Premiership after a rampant Championship campaign last year; only losing once in the regular season before overcoming Bedford in the play-offs.

All the hype will be surrounding director of rugby Dean Richards' return to the top-flight but Mayhew insists he is playing it cool and focusing on the immediate target ahead of him in the Falcons' opening fixture against Bath Rugby.

"Obviously we had a very successful year in the Championship but the Premiership is a whole new prospect, and we have been working really hard but we are keeping level-headed," he added.

"Dean hasn't got too involved so far as a lot of what we're working on is strength-based stuff with the coaches but he chips in now and again and obviously you listen to what he says.

"We've also done a lot of team bonding and spending time together which really boosts team morale which I think is important with a tough season ahead.

"It's not about surviving relegation or finishing as high as we can, it's about taking one game at a time starting at Bath.

"It's been a long pre-season and the boys are enjoying their time off at the moment with the weather being pretty perfect up here in Newcastle, but everyone just can't wait to get underway back in a league where we belong."

The final of J.P Morgan Premiership Rugby 7s will be at The Recreation Ground, the home of Bath Rugby, on Friday 9 August. For tickets and more information visit: www.jpmorgan7s.com or follow @jpmorganrugby7s