NEWLY-promoted Ealing have confirmed the signing of Plymouth Albion centre Toby Howley-Berridge.

Howley-Berridge follows Iain Grieve in swapping relegated Albion for the west London side.

Ealing have also signed former Albion prop George Porter from Worcester Warriors and ex-Westcountry Warriors player Nathan Hannay from Leeds.

Howley-Berridge spent three seasons at Brickfields, however, he wanted to move to London to be closer to his family and partner.  He told Ealing’s website: “For me it was the obvious place to be involved for the coming season. Ealing Trailfinders, as I do, have big ambitions and I feel privileged to be part of the next chapter in their Championship journey.”

Howley-Berridge added in a statement to Albion fans:  “I hope you’ll forgive me the timing of my departure.

“In truth, I decided on my move to London part way through this season. I want to be closer to my family, my partner Tiffany and look to build the beginnings of a career that inevitably follows after rugby.

“I will be playing for Ealing Trailfinders next season, but I will be looking out for the Albion results each Saturday at 4:45.

“It is with deep regret that I leave the club in its current position.

“It has been an extremely difficult year. Relegation at the hands of Moseley was wretched and agonising and very deeply felt by me. Going over to thank the travelling support afterwards was very humbling.

“I wish the players, coaching staff and everyone else staying at Albion the very best of luck for next season and for long into the future.

“It’s a great club and it’s been a wonderful privilege to be part of it. “

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