HIGHLY-rated Bradford & Bingley back-rower Adam Malthouse has joined SSE National League Two North outfit Huddersfield.

The 22-year-old flanker or No 8 was named as player of the year for the Bees in the season just ended, when they were relegated to SSE North One East – two divisions below the level that the Lockwood Park club will be playing at next season.

Yorkshire junior Malthouse's previous clubs included Otley, Huddersfield Giants, Leeds Carnegie and Yarnbury. He scored 13 tries for the Bees in 2013-14.

Huddersfield head coach Gareth Lewis said of the 6ft 4in, 17st 9lb forward: "This is fantastic news for the club.

"Adam is an outstanding acquisition and has put in some very good performances throughout the season.

"I've kept a careful eye on his progress and I'm sure he will fit right in at Huddersfield.

"Adam is a very level-headed player and has a great attitude to the game."

Malthouse added: "I'm very happy to join the club. I'm impressed with their ambitions and I'm looking forward to meeting the lads and the coaching staff.

"I want to test myself and the opportunity to play National Two was too good to turn down.

"I would like to thank Bradford & Bingley for the last two seasons and wish them all the best for the season coming."

Huddersfield have also signed Sandal second-rower Austen Thompson.