DISCUSSIONS are at an advanced stage as Gwent Dragons seek to attract a title sponsor and another kit deal.

Gwent already have some sponsors on board, but are stepping up their bid to gain more.

"We are in quite serious discussions with companies over title sponsorship and another kit sponsor," said Gwent Dragons chief executive David Jenkins.

"The name of the side was only put together three weeks ago, but we are getting close to securing further deals."

Jenkins also agreed that Gwent Dargons would play at Rodney Parade for the forseeable future, a five-year period at least.

And Martyn Hazell, the Newport director on the board, urged fans to support the Dragons if they want to watch top flight rugby next season.

They are hoping for a surge in the demand for season tickets after the release of their prices yesterday.

With a guarantee of 11 home Celtic League games and three in the Heineken Cup, it works out at just over £7 a match to watch from the terrace while top prices in the centre of the grandstand are under £16.

These are regarded as very competitive given the quality of fixtures on offer, especially those against top teams Leicester, Stade Francais and Ulster in the Heineken Cup.