Ealing Trailfinders have bolstered their second and back-row options ahead of the new season by bringing in Michael Walker-Fitton and Redford Pennycock.
Walker-Fitton joins from Doncaster Knights while Pennycock has arrived from Bristol Rugby.
Born in Burnley, Walker-Fitton began playing at his local club Caldervale, before he joined Sale Sharks Academy.
From there he enjoyed time in Spain, where he played for champions La Vila in the Amlin Challenge Cup, France, where he turned out for RC Chateaurenard and Australia, where he make appearances for Randwick.
At 6ft 5ins and nearly 19 stones, he has the physical presence and skills to play both in the second row, at number 8 and one the blindside flank.
“Michael brings a huge physical presence to the pitch which is an area we have tried to really improve on from last season,” said director of coaching Ben Ward.
“However, his biggest attribute comes at the lineout area where he is a skilled technician at studying and calling the right options. On top of this he has a great set of hands which will be great for our running and attacking game.”
Pennycock, who can play both open and blindside flank, has played for Bristol since 2012 when he joined from Newcastle Falcons.
The 28-year-old came through the Academy at the Memorial Stadium and made 58 appearances after his debut against Bath in October 2005.
After returning to the West Country he played 23 times in the 2012-13 and then followed up with 11 in 2013-14, including the home victory against Trailfinders.
“Red brings with him a lot of experience playing at the top level,” Ward said. “He also brings a physical presence and is a good ball carrier.
“He gives us options of being able to play six and seven. This will enable us to have variety in our build up of our back row and add more competition to an already competitive area.”
Walker-Fitton and Pennycock join Arthur Ellis, Matt Jarvis and Alex Walker in signing for Trailfinders this week.
