NEWPORT have bolstered their front row with the signing of loosehead prop Lewis Smout from Gwent Principality Premiership rivals Cross Keys, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 26-year-old moved to Pandy Park in 2016 after previously playing for Cardiff and Pontypridd and made 33 appearances over two seasons.

Smout, who came through the ranks with Cardiff Blues, will battle with fellow new recruit Dan Preece, who is arriving from Bedwas, for the number 1 jersey.

John Lavender has left the Black and Ambers for Bargoed while fellow looseheads Nicky Boyce and Matt Prosser have also departed.

However, forwards coach Ty Morris believes Smout has what it takes to help Newport have a formidable scrum.

“We have seen a lot of Lewis in derby matches in recent seasons and he has always caused us trouble with his set piece skills,” said Morris.

“We know that he has what it takes to be a winner in close games.

“Lewis has had a season disrupted by injury but we are confident he can reach high standards and become one of the best looseheads in the league.”

l Back row forward James Richards was named as player of the year and players' player of the year at Bedwas' end of season awards night.

Centre Adam Williams won the coaches’ award while supporters’ player of the year was back row forward Andrew Waite.

Brian Howells was awarded clubman of the year for his work maintaining the premises at Bridge Field and John Peasley was rewarded for his long and valued contribution to the club.

Youth team awards: players’ player of the year Rhodri Griffiths, coaches’ player of the year Scott Gulliford, player of the year Alex Kawulok

Second XV: players’ player of the year Luke Owen, coaches’ player of the year Michael Jones, player of the year Rhys Lewis