Lock-forward Darren Barry has left Newcastle Falcons to join French side, RC Vannes.

The 31-year-old joined from Worcester Warriors in the summer of 2019 and has made 20 first team appearances - Newcastle also confirming that lock Toby Salmon has returned from his loan spell at Saracens.

Director of rugby Dean Richards said: "Darren has been given a great opportunity to go over to Vannes, initially as a medical joker, to which we have agreed an early release.

"I would like to thank Darren for being a great professional during his time with the club, which included helping us to promotion back into the Gallagher Premiership.

"He has been a very popular and hard-working member of the squad, and we wish him all the best for his time over in France."

Barry said: "I would like to thank everyone at Newcastle Falcons for welcoming me and my family to the club when I arrived 18 months ago.

"I really enjoyed my time at the club, and have met some great people. It is unfortunate that I was unable to add to the team's efforts as much as I would like this season, but I wish everyone involved with the club all the best for the future.

"My fiancée and newborn son are both settled in Morpeth, and will continue to call it home.

"With that in mind, I am really looking forward to the challenge of playing rugby in a country I am very fond of. I hope to contribute as best as I can to the end-of-season challenge of gaining promotion from Pro D2 to the Top 14 with Vannes.

"Having been in France for a week already, I cannot wait to get involved and finish the season in style.

"Thank you to Newcastle for allowing me the opportunity to leave. Vannes, I look forward to playing for you and doing my best to help gain promotion.”