Newport County's captain and player of the year, Darren Jones, pictured top, is thrilled to have been selected for the Wales semi-pro squad along with team-mate Nathan Davies.

The pair are going to Cork in the Republic of Ireland for the Four Nations tournament later this month.

But it means that he is going to have to put his summer holiday plans on hold!

"It is nice to be selected and recognised for what you have done through the season," Jones said, "but I guess that it does mean I will have to keep myself in training for another few weeks.

"I was looking forward to a break but it is not a problem because I can go on holiday afterwards. I am just looking forward to it."

It is the first time Jones has been picked for the non-league side, although he picked up full international honours at under- 16, 17 and 19 level as well as being involved in the under-21s while he was at Bristol.

Meanwhile Jones' team-mate Nathan Davies reckons he has been selected as a good luck charm for the squad.

Davies gets his fourth call-up for Wales and he has been victorious twice already, including in last year's side that won in Scotland.

"I'm probably along for luck," he joked. "It will be a good trip and I am looking forward to it. "It is great to go as reigning champions and hopefully we can defend the trophy."

He added: "A lot of the lads have been involved before, so it will be easy to get things together."

The defending champions kick-off the 2005 Four Nations semi-professional tournament against Scotland on Tuesday, May 25 at Cobh Ramblers (kick-off 7.45pm) then take on England at the University Club on Thursday, May 26 (7.30pm) before finishing against the Republic of Ireland on Saturday, May 28 (3pm).

l Baramber (Newport County's Social Club located at Newport Stadium) plays host to top Madness tribute band One Step Below on Saturday, May 14. Tickets cost £6. Contact Rob on 07989-448692 for tickets or further information.