"I had a great experience at Liverpool and I believe West Ham will benefit this year, because I know I am a better player for it," Bellamy told West Ham's official Web site.

"I've signed a five-year contract here and I will be here for the long term. I've moved around a bit in recent years and now I want to settle."

The 27-year-old played for Newcastle, Blackburn Rovers and Liverpool inside the last three seasons, but he failed to book a regular place in the Reds' starting eleven.

Moreover, Bellamy's stay at Anfield faced another setback with the arrival of Spanish ace Fernando Torres and Ukrainian striker Andriy Voronin.

The Hammers' move for Bellamy comes in cover for the almost departing striker Carlos Tevez, who is on the verge of joining champions Manchester United.