AMBITIOUS Cinderford announced eight more new signings this week.

Many of the names will be familiar to Forest rugby fans with Leigh Green and Josh Hannam transferring from Lydney.

There's also a return for ex-Drybrook second-row Dale Critchley, who will now play for his home town after several seasons with Pontypool.

Cinderford have recruited hooker Stuart Bailey from newly-promoted National One outfit Old Albanians.

The Foresters previously announced the signings of Jack Adams and Mark Davies and they've further strengthened their back division by bringing in winger Hannam, who took to National Two South rugby with Lydney like a duck to water.

Utility back Sheldon Stevens and winger Sam Caven step up from National Two South side Dings Crusaders.

Former St Peter's old boy Joe Hoyle, a scrum-half from Matson, and Cheltenham North winger Dan Hewitt will also look to make names for themselves at Dockham Road. Director of rugby Andy Deacon said: "We've shown that we can compete at the highest levels within the league. By extending the strength and depth of our squad we will be equipped to start the new season where we left off and continue our growth."

Cinderford start pre-season training this week.

In partnership with Gloucestershire University, a fitness testing and analysis session will be held on Saturday using the college's state-of-the art facilities.

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For an interview with Jack Adams see this week's Forester.