NEWPORT Gwent Dragons have confirmed the signings of Wales stars Lee Byrne and Aled Brew.

Full-back Byrne, 33, has penned a two-year deal and will head to Rodney Parade after a hugely successful spell with Clermont Auvergne.

Winger Brew, 27, has signed a three-year deal to return for a third spell with the Dragons from Biarritz and will look to add his regional record of 43 tries.

“I am excited to be returning to Wales to play again,” said 46-times capped Byrne. “I hope to bring my experiences from France back to the Dragons.

“It’s no secret that the best fans in Wales are at Rodney Parade and it will be a nice change to have them cheer for me and not jeer for me!

“I am really pleased to be getting the opportunity to work with (director of rugby) Lyn Jones again. I have a lot of respect for him and I’m looking forward to having the chance to be part of developing a competitive Welsh region in the Dragons.”

Brew said: “I've really enjoyed my time in France and would like to think I've learned a lot during my time in Biarritz and that I've become a better player because of it.

“I have no regrets at all about my time in French rugby, it's been a fantastic experience but I feel it's the right time to come home for me and my family.

“I always wanted return to the Dragons after France given the chance. And I also still have ambition to play for Wales and to do that, I know I have to play week in, week out and it's something I'm determined to do with the Dragons.”

Director of rugby Jones will now press ahead with targets to bolster the Dragons pack but is delighted to have added firepower to his backs.

“I am absolutely delighted to sign someone of Lee’s experience and calibre,” he said. “He has proved himself in Britain and France as a top quality number 15.

“There are still many in the game who still rate Lee as the best 15 in the UK. It’s a significant signing for us who is going to help the growth of our Gwent side whilst helping to develop Hallam Amos as a future Welsh 15.

“Aled has shown a desire to come back to his natural home of Newport Gwent Dragons where he was extremely popular with the supporters in the past and proved to be an excellent try scorer.

“As well as Lee, Aled is a significant signing for the region and we are excited for his return to Gwent. I look forward to seeing him play once again on Rodney Parade.”