Harries and Tovey boost Dragons

Harries represented Bedford and Wales Sevens last season

Newport Gwent Dragons have signed Will Harries from Northampton Saints.

The Cardiff-born full-back or winger, 22, spent last season on loan at Bedford and played for Wales Sevens.

"We are delighted to be able to bring Will back to Wales, to the region where he started his career in our academy," said Dragons manager Robert Beale.

Jason Tovey has signed a two-year contract extension at Rodney Parade, Aaron Coundley, Lewis Evans and Hugh Gustafson also extending their deals.

The talented Tovey, 20, is seen as a future star of the game and was named in Wales' squad to tour North America in the summer, only to be ruled out by the Dragons' Heineken Cup play-off commitments.

606: DEBATE What do you think of the Dragons' signings?

Tovey scored 66 points in 19 games for the Dragons last season, featuring mostly at full-back although his long-term future is expected to be at fly-half.

"Jason showed last season his future potential and maturity as a player," said Dragons coach Paul Turner.

"He is one of the rising stars of Welsh rugby and we are delighted to have secured his services for a further two seasons.

"He's a local lad who has come through the ranks of the regions and, having decided to stay with us, despite other interests, he has shown his loyalty to the team and the supporters of the Dragons.

I can see that things are moving here and we have made some good signings to strengthen our squad Jason Tovey

"This signing clearly demonstrates our ability to develop and retain Welsh talent whilst bringing in experience."

Tovey added: "I'm really pleased to be staying on at the Dragons.

"I can see that things are moving here and we have made some good signings to strengthen our squad.

"Having come through the Dragons Academy, this is very much my team and I want to stay here for the foreseeable future and I'm delighted to have been able to extend my contract.

"Playing for Wales is obviously a big goal for me.

"I was delighted to get selected for the Welsh tour to North America over the summer and I feel that if I stay in form this season, then hopefully I'll have a shot at getting selected again."