Jones Joins Montferrand

The Wales outside half has been lured across the channel with the prospect of pitting his wits week-in, week-out against the top stars on the continent.

"I am excited about moving to France - learning a new language and experiencing a different culture," said Jones.

"The French love their rugby and I am expecting to be put through my paces in an intense domestic season."

Jones has been a key figure in the Scarlets' recent European campaigns, but has found himself on the losing side twice in the semi-finals and twice in the quarter-finals of the Heineken Cup in the past five seasons.

But despite these disappointments, Jones admitted it was a heart-wrenching decision to leave the Welsh region for pastures new.

'This club has been a very special place for me and it will be hard to leave,' said Jones, who made more than 200 appearances for the Stradey Park outfit. 'I come from Carmarthen and have always supported the Scarlets."

Scarlets Director of Rugby, Gareth Jenkins said: 'Naturally we are disappointed that Stephen will be leaving us but we respect his decision and wish him every success at Montferrand.

"Stephen joined us at 18 years of age and has been a big part of what we have achieved over the last eight years. He is a terrific player, a dedicated professional and has many friends at Stradey. We all wish him well.'

Montferrand, who lifted the Parker Pen Shield in 1999, will play Heineken Cup Rugby next season should they beat NEC Harlequins in the Parker Pen Challenge Cup Final on May 22.