NEWPORT have snapped up a trio of former Dragons and secured the services of three more players from Gwent rivals Pontypool.

The Black and Ambers have agreed deals with tighthead Gethin Robinson, flanker Rhys Jenkins and scrum-half James Leadbeater after they were released by the region at the end of last season.

Robinson has made 209 appearances for the club since 2003 while Leadbeater was their star of last season and Jenkins, who has been incredibly unlucky with injury, has been a defensive talisman.

“The signing of Gethin, Rhys and James will boost our squad as they bring with them professional experience which will stand us in good stead for the season ahead,” said head coach Sven Cronk.

“The knowledge and experience that they will have picked up while with the regional side will prove vital as we mount our league campaign.”

Joining them at Rodney Parade will be fly-half Tom Hancock, centre Adam Davies and hooker Ryan Prosser, who follow former Pooler teammates Andrew Quick, Geraint O’Driscoll and Dan Robinson in making the short journey south.

“These are exciting young players who are eager to make an impact in a Black and Amber shirt,” said Cronk.

“They are three quality signings who bolster our squad for the season ahead and I am looking forward to seeing how they develop in pre-season training.”

Last week the Black and Ambers confirmed the signings of scrum-halves Rhys Downes and Quick, utility back O’Driscoll, centre Robinson, fly-half Scott Sneddon and back row forward Craig Everett. More arrivals will be announced in the coming weeks.