Worcester Warriors are delighted to confirm the signing of Willie Walker on a two-year contract.
The 30-year-old, who joined Warriors for a successful three-month loan period at the end of the 2008/09 season, has signed a deal that will keep him at Sixways Stadium until at least 2011 – with the news officially confirmed at Warriors Awards Night.
Former Gloucester fly half Walker played nine games on loan for Warriors last season and produced many match winning displays as he scored 74 points, including a try against Guinness Premiership finalists London Irish.
Walker, who will be an English qualified player next season under residency, slotted a memorable last minute drop goal to defeat London Wasps at Sixways Stadium and was also inspirational in the derby day double over local rivals and his then parent club Gloucester.
The versatile back, comfortable at both fly half and full back, previously enjoyed spells with North Harbour in the NPC and the Highlanders in the Super 14.
Walker moved to England and joined Gloucester in 2006 and went on to make 64 appearances for the Cherry and Whites, scoring 364 points.
Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock admitted he was delighted to have signed Walker who had been attracting the attention of a host of other clubs after being released by Gloucester.
“We’re absolutely delighted to be able to announce that Willie Walker has decided to join Worcester Warriors,” said Ruddock.
“There was a lot of interest from a lot of other clubs for Willie’s services so we’re pleased he has chosen to join us.
“It was a huge opportunity to work with Willie during his loan spell with Warriors and because of that we saw just exactly how good a player he is.
“Willie is the consummate professional and also a match winner. The fact that he can play in more than one position is an incredible asset to the team.
“We are convinced that Willie will add something extra to our squad and his reputation as a quality front line goal kicker also adds to the significance of this signing.”