PONTYPOOL have made another statement of intent in their bid for a return to the Principality Premiership with the signing of Pontypridd favourite Geraint Walsh.

The full-back, who can also slot in on the wing or in midfield, has been a leading figure in the Sardis Road side’s success over the last six years.

The 30-year-old helped Ponty win three Premiership titles and a pair of WRU National Cup triumphs.

He was named as Premiership player of the year in 2013/14 and those exploits earned the elusive runner a chance at Cardiff Blues, while he also played for Wales in the World Rugby Sevens Series..

Walsh said: “I was seeking a fresh challenge and no other Premiership club appealed to me anywhere near as much as the chance to join Pontypool RFC.

“Pooler is one of the most iconic clubs in Welsh rugby history and with Pontypool being such a passionate rugby town, I knew this was something I wanted to be part of.

“The ambition of the club was also a big draw for me and I am excited by the drive everybody has to take the club back to the Premiership next season.

“There is a lot of quality and strength in depth at the club, which means competition for places with be fierce – but I am looking forward to the challenge and cannot wait to get started with my new teammates.”

Pooler are already hot favourites to win a third Championship crown on the spin but backs coach Matthew Jones believes Walsh will further sharpen their cutting edge.

"His understanding of the game is a huge strength and his ability to create space for others in attack will prove invaluable,” said Jones.

“He likes to challenge defences and will give us an extra dimension in attack that will complement our already strong contingent of backs.”