Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union

Aled Thomas first played for Scarlets in 2004 and went on to have spells with Carmarthen Quins, Newport Gwent Dragons and London Welsh before returning to the Pro 12 club.

Gloucester fly-half Aled Thomas is to rejoin Scarlets at the end of the season.

Thomas, 30, left Parc y Scarlets to join the English Premiership side before the start of the 2014-15 season.

He has been released from his contract to return to Wales.

"He's an experienced local player who knows what it takes to represent this region and will offer support to Steve Shingler at the fly half position," said Scarlets head coach Wayne Pivac.

He told the region's website: external-link "Having a player of Aled's experience and maturity within the squad will have a positive impact and will help young players like Josh Lewis and Dan Jones to further develop their game."

Thomas has found first team opportunities difficult to come by at Kingsholm, missing out to Welsh international James Hook and Billy Burns.

He has played just twice for the club in the Aviva Premiership and four times in the LV= Cup.

Thomas says he is "hugely excited" to be rejoining Scarlets.

"I'm very grateful to Gloucester Rugby who have agreed my release so that I can return to the Scarlets where I have previously enjoyed three fantastic seasons.

"The prospect of rebuilding successful playing partnerships and playing in front of the Scarlets faithful and vocal supporters is something I look forward to."