EBBW Vale have named former prop Lee Davies as successor to Ceri Jones as forwards coach at Eugene Cross Park, writes Chris Kirwan.

Ex-Wales prop Jones has taken over in charge of the pack at Newport Gwent Dragons after helping the Steelmen win the Principality Premiership.

Head coach Nigel Davies has opted for Lee Davies as his replacement, the former front rower having played for Ebbw from 2003 to 2006.

He has played a leading role in the success of Coleg y Cwmoedd's rugby team and was coach with Beddau in the SSE Swalec Championship last season.

Davies will be assisted by talisman lock Damien Hudd with the skipper combining his on-field duties with working towards his level one and two WRU coaching qualifications.

Nick Wakley will continue to coach the backs and Lewis Roberts will have his fourth season in charge of strength and conditioning, assisted by University of South Wales intern Harry Ashby.

The Steelmen are back in training as they prepare to defend their crown and have arranged friendlies against at Bedlinog on Friday, August 12 and London Welsh on Saturday, August 27.

The latter of those encounters is at Imber Court in Surrey with the Ebbw Addicts running coach transport for £20. Contact 07766490358 or email ebbwaddicts@gmail.com for more information.