London Skolars have announced the signing of former Toulouse Olympique XIII and Avignon player Patelisio Pelo.

Pelo, known to Rugby League fans as Tely Pelo, arrives in the UK to bolster Joe Mbu’s squad ahead of the 2014 Kingstone Press Championship One campaign, which begins on the March 2.

Skolars head coach Joe Mbu is sure Pelo has all the ingredients to become a fans’ favourite at New River.

He said: “A lot of the focus has been on some of the players who departed the club in the close season, such as Dylan Skee and James Anthony.

“I have been working hard to make sure we have quality players coming into the club who can make a real impact this coming season.

“There was considerable interest from a number of clubs in acquiring Tely’s services so I am delighted he has decided that the next phase of his career will be spent with Skolars.”

He added: “I am looking forward to working with Tely and I believe that he has all the attributes to be a huge success over here.”

The 29-year-old was born in New Caledonia and moved to France in 2004 to take up a degree in physical chemistry and to pursue sporting activities.

He played with the University of Tolouse rugby union team in his first year and was selected to represent the league side the following year after impressing.

Pelo then signed with amateur team Ramonville XIII in 2006 and was an ever-present on the wing.

After just three years playing rugby league, Tolouse Olympique recognised his talent and potential and beat off stiff opposition from many Elite One clubs to sign him on a professional contract in 2008.

He spent his first season playing for the reserve team, St Gaudens XIII on the wing.

Pelo then established himself in the first team before he moved on to Avignon in 2011 and played the majority of his matches at prop or second row.

In the 2012/2013 campaign Pelo was a key member of the Avignon side and helped them to victory in the prestigious Lord Derby Cup.