WORCESTER Rugby Club have lost one of their crown jewels with Tim Walsh set for Leeds Tykes.

The fly-half will sign a one-year deal at Headingley as Worcester count the cost of missing out on promotion to the Premiership.

The Australian made the number 10 jersey his own last season with a number of outstanding performances particularly in the bigger games against Rotherham and Leicester Tigers.

With the former North Harbour star out of contract at the end of the month at Sixways, he had a choice between another season in National One or the bright lights of the Premiership.

In the end, the pull was too much for Walsh although he admitted he was sad to leave Worcester. "I've loved my time at the club," he said.

"If I had my choice it would be to play with Worcester in the Premiership but that doesn't look like it's going to happen for at least another season.

"I want to play at the highest level and although I'm sad to leave Worcester, I want to play in the Premiership. The coaches have been great and I'm very grateful to them, Cecil Duckworth and the supporters who are fanatical!"

Walsh had to choose between Leeds and Rotherham but with some uncertainty still hanging over the recently promoted club, he plumped for Headingley.