PONTYPOOL have further strengthened their backs for the defence of their WRU National Championship campaign by signing experienced centre Lewis Prothero, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 31-year-old joins Pooler after 10 seasons with Bargoed, helping the Bulls rise through the leagues to take a place in the Principality Premiership.

Prothero has decided to seek a fresh challenge and sign for Pooler, who last season lost just one league game on their way to the Championship title.

"I am delighted to be joining Pontypool RFC at such a pivotal moment in the club's development," he said.

"I am really looking forward to taking up a new challenge with a club so rich in history and with a squad and management who are determined to make their own mark on the history books in their own right.

"I cannot wait to take to the field with some of my old rivals whilst helping Pontypool RFC push for promotion back to the Principality Premiership."

Head coach Leighton Jones is delighted to have a seasoned campaigner slotting into his midfield.

"We are very pleased to have secured Lewis' services for the coming season and his signing has been essential following the retirement of Sione Tu?ipulotu," he said.

"Lewis' loyalty to Bargoed demonstrates that he has the core values that we seek in any player who joins Pooler and his physicality will be an essential ingredient in a league he knows very well.

"Lewis' experiences in helping guide Bargoed to the Premiership under such immense pressure will provide valuable knowledge to our squad as we begin to get closer making our own attempt to finally reach the premier division over the next couple of years."

Pooler warm up for the season with away friendlies at Gowerton and Pontypool United either side of a home encounter with Premiership club Llanelli on Saturday, August 19.

They kick off the defence of their title against Championship new boys Rhydyfelin on Saturday, September 2.

The Premiership is ring-fenced for the next two seasons.