GEORGE Evans will return to Dockham Road next season after Cinderford director of rugby snapped him up from local rivals Hartpury College.

Evans, a former captain at the Beavis Memorial Ground, is the youngest member of Cinderford’s 200 club and has signed after a season with the National League One runners-up.

“George’s return is important to everyone involved at the club,” Morris said.

“He is widely respected as a player and a person by the management, coaching staff, players and supporters.

“Cinderford is where we think he belongs and we are excited that he will be part of the club’s new era.

“There is no doubt that he will have benefited from the experience of being in a different environment. George’s desire to play for the club, quiet leadership, authority and unquestioned ability made it an opportunity too good to miss.”

Evans led the side during 2013-14, and made his 200th first team appearance against Rosslyn Park in February 2015. He left for Hartpury last October following the birth of his daughter that month.

Also returning to the club is fellow back row Will Keenan, Isle of Man native Keenan, 29, first came to Cinderford in the summer of 2013 and helped the side avoid relegation the following season.

Keenan has also spent time in New Zealand but on returning to the country signed for Moseley in 2015-16, standing out in a narrow 24-22 defeat by Bristol at Ashton Gate in April.

“Will is an effervescent character and a real nuisance to play against,” Morris added.

“When we knew he was available, we felt it was the right thing to do to bring him back to the club.

“Will has a great attitude, a hunger for work and embraces the physicality of the game. It is these characteristics that made him a great fit for us.

“As for all members of the squad, competition for places is going to be extremely high. George and Will are under no illusions of the challenge in front of them and we are confident that it will bring the best out of them.”