Richard Mayhew: Has impressed since joining from Esher

The New Zealanders both arrived at Kingston Park in the summer, with Richard having joined from Esher and Michael having teamed up with his older sibling from North Harbour.

And the duo have now signed two-and-a-half-year contracts after impressing during their time at the Falcons.

The 24-year-old hooker Michael has scored twice in 13 appearances for the side, while No.8 Richard, who is a year older, has turned out eight times - although he has been sidelined for five weeks with a knee injury.

And Falcons head coach Alan Tait is hoping the English-qualified duo are the first in a number of players to commit to the club.

He told the club's Falcons TV: "I am delighted that Michael has decided to re-sign for the club and with Richard I told him that it would be nice for him to stay with his brother.

"Richard has extended his deal to match his brother's. This is the time of the year when we are looking to build - we are talking to players and agents at the moment.

"Hopefully this is the start of some more lads coming into the club. We are looking to strengthen the squad and there are also about 12 players we are looking to re-sign so hopefully we will get them to commit."