The former Scotland international returned to Kingston Park in the summer of 2007, having previously come through the club’s academy before going on to first team and full international honours.

Capped nine times by Scotland at full Test level, the 6 foot 4, 17 stone 3 back row man came through the Falcons academy before going on to represent the Newcastle first team.

Having moved from the Falcons to fellow Premiership side Bristol, Beattie has also played for Northampton and Newport Gwent Dragons in a career which has seen him capped by England at Under-19s, 21s and Students level, as well as Scotland Under-18s and the full Scottish Test side. His nine Scotland caps included three appearances in the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

His first match for the Falcons during his second stint at the club came in the home victory over Leicester Tigers, while he captained the team for two matches towards the end of the 2007/8 season.

School/university: Hymers College

Previous clubs: Borders, Northampton, Newport, Bristol

Nicknames: Beattie Lad, Beastie

Favourite TV show: Heroes

Favourite film: The Princess Bride

Favourite book: Crime and Punishment

Favourite food: Steak and chips

Least like to meet: Bob Morton

Best moment in rugby: Returning to the Falcons

Best moment outside of rugby: Asking my girlfriend what the plural of ‘muffin’ was

Favourite place to visit: Rome

Team-mate least like to share a room with and why: John Rudd, he’s too happy a character

I love: Life

I hate: Negativity