The former England A star has agreed a two-year contract at the Memorial Stadium.

Shaw, who also had a spell with Newcastle, will link up once again with former Falcons Garath Archer and Ross Beattie.

He told the club's official website: "As soon as I knew of Bristol Shoguns' interest, I was keen to join.

"I know a few of the players from my time at Newcastle and the club has huge potential. Bristol had a great end of season last year.

"I watched the Zurich Championship quarter-final against Leicester on television and the Shoguns were the only team last year to stop their forwards."

Shoguns head coach Peter Thorburn is delighted to have Shaw on board.

He said: "There was an obvious need to strengthen the midfield - Andrew Higgins injured his neck last season and then Jason Little moved on in the summer.

"The opportunity to sign up Martin was too good not to pick up."

Meanwhile, Bristol have released both Sean Marsden and Mike McCarrick after their contracts ended this summer.