DRAGONS lock Scott Andrews will move to Principality Premiership outfit Neath when his contract expires at the end of the season.

The 23-year-old from Marshfield came through the Dragons’ ranks after learning the game with Bassaleg School and Whiteheads but the Wales Under-20s international’s progress was hindered by injuries.

Andrews made three appearances for the Rodney Parade region, making his debut as a replacement in the home Guinness PRO12 win against Leinster in January, 2016 and then having two further cameos in the current campaign against Munster and Northampton in November.

The lock had a brief spell on loan at Ealing Trailfinders in the English Championship last season but has featured most frequently with Cross Keys in the Premiership, racking up 67 appearances for the Pandy Park side.

However, he will now leave Gwent for the Gnoll in a move that reunites him with former Dragons head coach Lyn Jones.

Jones said: “I worked with Scott while at the Dragons and he’s a good professional who will help us to drive standards next season.

“We are short of a few leaders in the squad at the moment so Scott will add vital leadership on top of his good technical and athletic ability.

“This is undoubtedly a key signing for us and I have no doubt the Neath community will make Scott feel very welcome at the Gnoll.”

Andrews said he still has ambitions of playing professional rugby, a target that he hopes the Welsh All Blacks can assist.

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at the Dragons, coming through their pathway and learning and developing to play national age-grade and PRO14 rugby, so I’ve got a lot to thank them for.

“However, it’s now time for a change and I was really excited by Lyn and (chairman) Mike Cuddy’s vision for Neath over the next few seasons.

“While I’m still young and still have ambitions to return to professional rugby, I’m very much concentrated on Neath next season in what is looking like being a pivotal season in the Premiership. I’m really looking forward to getting started.”