The 29-year-old powerhouse has left the Scarlets by mutual consent so is immediately available for selection in the remainder of this season's matches.

The former Hawick second-rower has signed with Edinburgh until 2011 and is looking forward to learning from head coach Andy Robinson, whom he worked with on Scotland's tour to Argentina last summer.

MacLeod said: “I definitely feel like I’m making the right move and I’m really excited at the prospect of playing for Edinburgh.

“I was coached by Andy Robinson while on tour with Scotland and working with him on a day-to-day basis will definitely help me to improve as a player.

“He is a hard coach, but he gets the best out of his players. It is the best move I could have made at this stage in my career, especially after going through a difficult year.

“I’m looking forward to a fresh start and working hard towards achieving my career goals for both Edinburgh and Scotland.”