Newcastle Falcons can confirm that Redford Pennycook has returned home to Bristol Rugby.

The 26-year-old back-rower, who made 20 appearances for the Falcons scoring twice, has moved for personal reasons.

Pennycook made his Falcons debut in the 2010-11 Aviva Premiership opener at Sale and in the week that followed, the Bristol-born forward announced himself as a Newcastle player with a try in the comeback victory at home to London Wasps.

“I have loved my time at Newcastle Falcons and I have learnt a lot during my time there,” said Pennycook.

He added: “I have made some friends for life and I wish the club all the best for the season. My decision is based on personal reasons and the move comes at the right time for me.”

His last match for the Falcons came in the club’s final Amlin Challenge Cup pool match of the current campaign at Lyon OU.

Prior to his switch to Tyneside, the 6’ 2” fleet-footed openside helped Bristol to a top-place finish in the Championship’s regular season standings in 2009-10.

The former England under-18s star enjoyed 58 outings in his four seasons at the Memorial Stadium.

Newcastle Falcons would like to take this opportunity to wish Redford all the very best for the future.