Edinburgh sign Scottish club prop

 The 29-year-old tighthead said that it was a big achievement for him to pen a deal with the club at this stage of his career.

"I never thought it was going to happen, I thought opportunities like this would have passed me by, then I got into the club international side two years ago for the first time," said Beavon.

"I still never thought anything would come of it as I was obviously older.

"However after speaking to Alan he reckons I've got a fair few years playing in me, that I'm reaching my prime as a tighthead.

"I don't want this opportunity to pass me by so I'm going to give it everything I've got.”

Beavon, who started playing for Melrose Minis and worked his way through the Borders age grades, made his club debut in the black and yellow when he was 17.

Until the age of 15 he played fullback/centre, citing Alan Tait as a role model. 

Beavon also took time out to play southern hemisphere rugby during spells in Australia and New Zealand.

A self-employed joiner, Beavon has been training with Edinburgh on a trial basis since January.

"I was coming up to train two days a week and working the other three, to keep the money coming in. 

"The people I've been sub-contracting have been really good, they obviously accept I've been given this opportunity and wish me all the best.

"Everyone at the club has been really welcoming and helping me out in any way they can. 

"I've played with a few of the current players – Damien [Hoyland] and now Lewis [Carmichael] – and against a few of them, too, while I've been with Melrose!”

Head coach Alan Solomons said: "Nick was, similar to Rory Sutherland, brought in from the club game for a trial period.

"I am delighted that he has proved worthy of a professional contract and am sure that he will continue to develop and add depth in a vital position.

"He is a good bloke who has fitted in well and we look forward to him continuing his development with us."