The 27-year-old flanker, Halifax's player of the season in 2006/07, has signed an initial season-long contract with National One new boys Manchester.

Lewis's departure ends an association stretching back six years for the former Huddersfield and Yorkshire under 20s player.

While sorry to leave Ovenden Park, Lewis said that he was looking forward to challenging himself at a high level.

"I spent six amazing years at Halifax and have many fantastic memories," said Lewis. "But this opportunity came along and I knew I had to take it.

"It was not a decision I took lightly. It was very much a heart and head situation, but after taking stock following a long, hard season, I decided it was now or never.

"I am 28 next time round and I didn't want to look back with regrets. I will take the opportunity with both hands. It has always been an ambition to play at the highest level I can and now I have that chance."

Lewis, who was also courted by another National One outfit, Otley, during the close season, accepts that it will be difficult but after putting in 100 per cent effort everytime he pulled on a Halifax shirt, his desire to impress will never be questioned.

"I am under no illusions about how tough it is going to be," he added. "Manchester are a decent side. They have an excellent coach in Dave Baldwin, who has played at the highest level, and they play an exciting brand of rugby.

"I am looking forward to being part of that. I just need to get out there and give it my best shot."

Halifax coach Rhys Morgan said he would be sorry to see Lewis go but realised that the opportunity to play in the sport's second tier was too attractive a proposition for the player to turn down.

"I think it was a hard decision for Gareth to make, but I know he has made the decision for all the right reasons," said Morgan.

"He has thought long and hard, but at 27 he still has a lot to offer and would like to continue playing at the highest level possible.

"To be honest I had resigned myself to losing Gareth at the end of last season. Then it looked as though he might be staying but Manchester have stepped in.

"Gareth has been an exceptional player for Halifax and of course he goes with everybody's best wishes."

Lewis added that he would always be grateful to Halifax for giving him the opportunity to sample success and play at a good level.

He has also backed them to overcome the disappointments of last season and consolidate their position in National Three (North).

"Rhys is putting a really competitive squad together and I am certain they can do well in Three North," added Lewis. "There are, and have been, some top people involved at the club such as Kevin (McCallion) who gave me my chance and Rhys who I think did brilliantly in what was a pretty desperate season."