PONTYPOOL have bolstered their pack ahead of the coming Swalec Championship campaign by securing the return of experienced front row forward Jamie Jeune, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 29-year-old, who can play both loosehead prop and hooker, made 149 appearances for Pooler between 2005 and 2012.

He left for Newport following the club's controversial demotion from the top flight but came back on permit last season.

Jeune has made the return permanent and is relishing the chance to try and help the club win the Championship title.

"I'm over the moon to be back where I belong with Pontypool and playing at Pontypool Park after my short experience down the road," said Jeune.

"This experience has made me realise how much the club means to me and I really am looking forward to helping to play my part in taking the club back to where it belongs in the Principality Premiership."

Director of rugby Alun Carter hopes that the front row forward will provide steel while also thriving in the loose.

"He has that rare commodity for a prop forward of having footballing ability whilst still being able to perform his primary role at set piece," said the former Wales back row forward.

"He also has a high standard of fitness for a front rower that is going to be a key aspect for us throughout next season."

Jeune is the third old boy to return to Pooler following the signings of openside Rob Nash and fly-half Tom Hancock.

The core of the side that helped Pooler climb from 12th in 2012/13 to fourth last term have agreed to stay for the coming season which is likely to see them battling Swansea, RGC 1404, Bargoed, Cardiff Met and Narberth for top spot.