LONDON Welsh have announced eight new signings as they prepare for life back in the Championship.
They include utility back Tom May, who has two caps for England and joins after two seasons at Northampton Saints.
Another with international experience is hooker Andy Titterrell, capped five times by England and part of the 2005 British and Irish Lions squad, who signs after a season with Edinburgh.
Flanker Richard Thorpe, fresh from ten appearances for Aviva Premiership champions Leicester Tigers, will also bolster the pack.
Versatile forward Pete Browne also has top flight experience after three years at Harlequins.
There is a trio who plied their trade in the Championship last season – winger Rhys Crane, number 8 Ben Pienaar and flanker Carl Kirwan.
The final addition is second row Ben West, who has spent the last two seasons at National League One side Cinderford.
The Exiles, who played home games at the Kassam Stadium last season, yesterday confirmed they were still considering staying on in Oxford despite relegation from the Premiership.
London Welsh’s new signings (most recent club in brackets):
- Tom May (Northampton Saints)
- Andrew Titterrell (Edinburgh)
- Richard Thorpe (Leicester Tigers)
- Pete Browne (Harlequins)
- Ben Pienaar (Moseley)
- Carl Kirwan (Rotherham Titans)
- Rhys Crane (Nottingham)
- Ben West (Cinderford)
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