JONNY Wilkinson, the Newcastle Falcons fly half, has confirmed his departure from Tyneside to sign a two-year deal with Toulon.

Wilkinson, scored 1,948 points in his 174 appearances for Newcastle during his 12-season stay, having joined straight from school back in 1997.

He spent 12 years with the Falcons, joining fellow Falcons Tom May, Jamie Noon and Ollie Phillips in heading across the channel to join the cash-rich French league.

The 29-year-old, who had a year left on his Newcastle contract, played just four games last season after dislocating his knee in September.

Falcons director of rugby, Steve Bates, said: "Jonny will undoubtedly go down as one of Newcastle's all-time greats.

"He has contributed an incredible amount to this club over the past 12 seasons, and been an inspirational figurehead for rugby in the North-East.

"Even during the times when his appearances for us were restricted he has always remained a positive presence behind the scenes, and everyone here thanks him for his fantastic service as well as wishing him all the best for his new life over in France."