ESSEX Leopards have announced their first new signing of the summer with the acquisition of English forward Siman Stewart.

The 6ft 6ins tall forward was captain at Team Northumbria who finished third on their English Division One debut last season having spent two years in the north east following a season at Worcester Wolves in the BBL.

Stewart, inset, started his career at Leopards’ now defunct Division One rivals Coventry Crusaders.

Coach Robert Youngblood said: “I spoke to Mark Stuetal (Team Northumbria coach) and Siman was the one player he didn’t want to lose this summer.

“Fab Flournoy at Newcastle Eagles also highly rates him, and I think Siman will be an excellent signing for us.”

Leopards will be playing nine of their home games at Garon Park in Southend next season and Stewart is looking forward to getting started.

“I’m delighted to be joining the Essex Leopards,” said Stewart.

“The franchise has proven itself to be an elite club in the EBL and sets its goals for the very top each and every year.

“I’m excited by the prospect of the new campaign and hopefully being able to add more silverware to the collection.”