NEWBRIDGE Rugby Club have been busy adding to and rebuilding their Welsh First Division squad for next season.

They have announced the names of five new players they have signed, three of them former Welfare Ground performers.

The trio returning are wing Alan Harries from Ebbw Vale, flanker Damien Cooper from Abertillery and outside half Jonathan Williams from Oakdale.

Former Wales A player Harries played a few games for Newbridge on dual registration from Ebbw Vale last season, but now returns full time though retaining his commercial post at Eugene Cross Park.

"He is returning after several seasons away and brings a lot of experience," said backs coach Jonathan Westwood.

Cooper is also experienced, mainly at First Division level. He left Newbridge a few seasons ago after suffering a badly broken leg.

Williams was with Newbridge as a youngster and has gained experience with Division Two club Oakdale. Other clubs were also after his signature.

The other pair to sign are former Abertillery Park favourite Stuart Pennell, a centre or wing who last season played for Pontypool, and Rumney loose head prop Paul Douglas, highly thought of by Newbridge forwards coach Mike Watkins. "This is just a start. There will be more signings soon," said Westwood.