PREMIERSHIP star Chris Yates is the latest big-name star to be snapped up by Worcester Rugby Club.

The 29-year-old centre, who was not offered a new contract by Gloucester coach Philippe Saint-Andre at the end of the season, moves to Sixways after two seasons at Kingsholm.

The former Sale player was one of the stars of the Premiership two years ago and his centre partnership with Terry Fanolua was heralded as one of the main reasons behind the club's top-three finish.

However, last season he found it tough to break into the side after the arrival of Aussie ace Jason Little and had to spend most of his time on the substitutes bench.

Ironically, with Little's move to Bristol, Yates had hoped there would be a new deal at the end of the season only to be told he had no future at the club by the Cherry and Whites' coach.

However, Gloucester's loss is Worcester's gain and chief executive Geoff Cooke could not hide his excitement regarding the latest coup for the club.

He said: "Chris's signing shows we really mean business at Sixways next season. He is a big, strong lad who threatens defences from inside centre.

"I was surprised Gloucester let him go but once we knew he was available, we had to go for him."