The 31-year-old back row joins the Falcons after a year with French club Tarbes.

Charvis, rated as one of the top forwards in the European game, will become the first Wales international to play for the Falcons.

The clubs director of rugby Rob Andrew said: "I'm thrilled that Colin has agreed to join us, and I think he will add a massive amount to both the pack and the team as a whole.

"He's a proven international captain with a huge amount of experience, and his leadership skills will be a real asset to us in a back row which also includes another international captain, (Samoas) Semo Sititi.

"We had said that we were trying to get big signings into the club during the summer, and in Colin we have achieved just that.

"I think the supporters will appreciate what a crucial signing this is, and will be looking forward to seeing him in a Falcons shirt."

Charvis has won 68 caps for Wales and scored 12 international tries. He is set to add to his tally this month with Wales playing two Tests in Argentina and one in South Africa.

He began his career with London Welsh before moving to Swansea in 1995 and making his Test debut against Australia the following year.

He toured Australia with the British Lions in 2001 and was on the bench for the first and third Tests. He joined Tarbes last summer.

Charvis said: "I'm over the moon to have joined Newcastle.

"There were offers from France on the table but, having spoken to Rob Andrew and seen the facilities at the Falcons, I liked their ethos.

"From a personal point of view it's a sigh of relief to have sorted it out, and hopefully I can help Newcastle move forward.

"I'm still obviously committed to playing international rugby for Wales, and [Wales coach] Mike Ruddock is happy that I'm at least back in Britain so he can keep track of my progress more easily."