BEDWAS Rugby Club have suffered a double blow with the loss of two of their best and most experienced players to player-coaching roles with other clubs.

Outside half Paul Williams has joined his former club and Bedwas' Welsh Premier Division rivals, Bridgend, while flanker Chris Brown is the new man in charge at English National League Division Two outfit Launceston.

Both players have been Bedwas regulars and will be difficult to replace, but go with the club's blessing.

"Their departures are big losses to us," agreed coach Steve Law, "but their moves have been negotiated amicably. It is an opportunity for both players, coaching is something they have wanted to do and I'm sure they will do an excellent job."

Law confirmed that another flanker, Ben Cole, and wing/full back Glen Bunny would not be rejoining the club this season after moving from Exeter last term.

"They joined us at a time when we had a multitude of injuries, but it was always a short-term solution," said Law. "We have signed what we believe are excellent replacements."

One back row replacement is 22-year-old Craig Hill, a former Caerphilly Under-21s and Newport player who was on a full time contract at Bristol last season.

"He has a lot of potential and will plug the back row gap," said Law.

Bedwas have also signed former Bridgend wing Daniel Jones. With Nathan Hill, Stefan Sankala and the fit again Matthew Pizey also on board, Bedwas won't be short of pace out wide.

Andrew James, an excellent footballer and goal-kicker who has played at full back and outside half, will fill Williams' role and the club will probably rely on former Cardiff Under-21s player Dean Watkins as their outside half number two rather than make another signing.

"We could do with another centre," added Law, "but other than that we are pretty well set for next season and should be in a position to confirm our squad shortly."