THE NEWPORT Gwent Dragons will be aiming to bounce back from last weekend's defeat in Cardiff with a little help from some new fans tonight.

The new Dragons cheerleaders have been putting the final touches to their routine this week ahead of their debut at tonight's Celtic League match against Llanelli Scarlets at Rodney Parade.

Last month we reported that the Dragons were looking for cheerleaders to encourage the team and its supporters.

And with pompoms at the ready, they are set to get the home crowd cheering on the Dragons with their finely tuned dance routines and celebrations.

Clare Dando, 20, from Gaer, is studying for a sports and PE degree at UWIC, Cardiff, and said: "I do a lot of dancing so I thought I would go for the team because I thought it would be good fun, and it has been."

Jade Kendall, 17, from Newport, said: "I just enjoy everything about dancing and it should be a great experience. I am a little nervous, but all my family are coming down to see the match."

On Wednesday chief executive Andy Marinos announced plans for the family village and cheerleaders.

He said: "We realise that the main reason supporters visit Rodney Parade is for the rugby match, but while supporters are here we want to make it more of an event.

"We want supporters to leave Rodney Parade having really enjoyed the experience and wanting to return.

"We want to create an evening out for all members of the family to enjoy, and these activities will help contribute to this."