ALEX Brown believes joining French side Perpignan was just the change his rugby career needed.

The prop forward, who is a former FitzWimarc School pupil, has left Exeter Chiefs to head across the channel.

And the 26-year-old cannot wait to kick off the new campaign in another country.

“There were three main things that made my mind up really – the culture, the country and the club and I’m very happy to be here now,” said Brown.

“I had a great time at Exeter but I wasn’t really happy playing two or three games a season. I want to be playing regularly not carrying the bags and I hope to do that here.

“I had always wanted to play in France as well because of their love for the scrum and it’s just a complete change which I think I needed.”

Brown, who also attracted interest from Wasps, is now living in France with his girlfriend.

And he already feels settled in his new surroundings.

“We’ve got a lovely place out here and there’s a real cult following for rugby which is great,” said Brown.

“It’s similar to what football is like in Essex so it’s going to be great to be a part of it all.

“I’ve already started lessons to learn the language as well and I think that’s going to be an important part of settling in.

“Both my girlfriend and I want to be able to speak French fluently so we can really feel at home here.”

Brown also hopes to be able to fit in comfortably on the field and help Perpignan win promotion back to the top division.

“Perpignan are currently in the second division of French rugby but they’re a big club who have won a few cups and want to get back up into in to the Top 14,” said Brown.

“We’re working very hard in pre-season and it’s really tough in the heat. But I can’t wait for the season to start now.”