The Hull-based goal kicking scrum-half made a big impression with the South Leeds outfit last year, while on loan from Dewsbury, and scored 43 points through two tries, 17 goals and a drop goal in eight appearances. His debut was on 10 July, against West Wales, and his last outing was at Oldham on 4 September.

Beharrell, 29, joined his local amateur club Hull Dockers during the winter and has excelled for the Green & Whites, who were promoted last year, in the early weeks of the 2023 Impact Performance National Conference League’s Premier Division campaign. He has opted to return to Hunslet in preference to attractive options with other leading professional outfits.

He said: “It’s great to be back! I trained with the squad earlier this week and it felt as though I’d never been away.

“I hadn’t wanted to leave Hunslet in the first place, it was a funding issue and although I’ve had other offers during the time I’ve been playing for Hull Dockers, I didn’t want to sign for anyone just for the sake of it. It had to feel right, and Hunslet feels right.”

He added: “It’s been a great experience with the Dockers. I didn’t expect to be playing for them, they’re local to where I live and I went along just to keep fit, really, but found myself signing. The Premier Division of the National Conference League is a high standard, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the last few weeks, and I wish them all the best this season and beyond.”

Hunslet’s head coach Alan Kilshaw said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome back Matty and to officially make him a Hunslet player. He had some outstanding performances in difficult circumstances last season, while on loan. We can look forward to seeing him playing in this new-look team, behind a dominant pack and with a strong edge.

“We have some really good, talented young halves but we felt we lacked a general, and some experience in the 7 position. Matty can not only help us get us over the line in close games, but can also help develop Jake Sweeting, Morgan Punchard and Fraser Stroud. At 29 he is in his prime years, and is an elite halfback at this level.”

He added: “This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of sponsor Jason Peterkin of 247Blinds, and the board. Once again, off the field, they have been incredibly supportive of everything we have put in place and have backed the squad we have put together. I am determined to repay their faith, and I know the playing group share my gratitude and determination.”