NEWPORT RFC have moved to fill their void at loosehead prop by signing Dan Preece from Principality Premiership rivals Bedwas, writes Chris Kirwan.

The Black and Ambers have lost John Lavender, Nicky Boyce and Matt Prosser after a season that saw them finish ninth in the league and lose the WRU National Cup final to Merthyr.

Coming in is 32-year-old Preece, who has been an influential figure at Bridge Field with 136 appearances to his name since joining in 2012.

The prop, who has also played for Cross Keys, Cardiff and Pontypool, previously captained Bedwas and forwards coach Ty Morris is pleased to have secured his services.

"Dan has a wealth of Premiership experience with very strong scrummaging skills and an aggressive no-nonsense approach to his rugby that will give us the qualities we need in what is going to be a challenging season.

"We are looking forward to Dan adding a hard edge to our pack and we feel the rugby we play will suit him and bring out the best in his performance."

Meanwhile Bedwas have announced four pre-season friendlies to tune-up for the Premiership, which carries the threat of relegation again following the end of ring-fencing.

Ian Gardner's men will entertain Championship side Trebanos on Saturday, August 4 and travel to Senghenydd the following Thursday.

Marlborough visit Bridge Field on Saturday, August 18 and the final friendly is a trip to Esher on Saturday, August 25.

Bedwas also host the Dragons versus Ealing encounter on Saturday, August 11.