Aberystwyth Town Football Club confirmed the additions of Gavin Jones and Louis Bradford ahead of the start of their new Cymru Premier campaign last weekend.

Carmarthen-born Jones has joined the Seasiders from Cymru South side Ammanford, having impressed in the Welsh League last term. A pacey and tenacious midfielder, the 21-year-old could prove to be a strong addition to Gavin Allen’s options in the middle of the park.

Meanwhile 18-year-old defender Louis Bradford has joined the Seasiders on loan from The New Saints, having impressed in their Academy. A tall and agile defender, Bradford is proficient through the middle or as a right-back, and will bolster Allen’s options at the back.

First Team coach Bari Morgan said: “Gavin’s talents were obvious last year with Ammanford, and he’s impressed us during his trial. He will offer us another option in midfield, to compliment the lads we’ve already brought into the club.

“As for Louis, his performances in training and during friendlies have been impressive, and his versatility is key to our defensive options. We’re delighted to be bring both lads to Park Avenue.”

After last Saturday’s 3-2 defeat to Cardiff Met, the Seasiders were set to make a swift return to action on Tuesday evening in their first away fixture, at Penybont.

A hectic start to the new season will see the Seasiders host Flint Town United behind closed doors on Friday evening, before then travelling to Newtown on 25 September and Connah’s Quay Nomads on 28 September.

Despite not registering any league points from their opening game, it was an encouraging performance from Gavin Allen’s new-look side.

Former Penrhyncoch star Jonathan Evans netted the first post-lockdown Cymru Premier goal of the season with an excellent individual strike - and Rhys Davies also came off the substitutes’ bench to score on his debut.

Notably, more than half of the starting team was Ceredigion-based, including Alex Pennock, Harri Rowe, Lee Jenkins, Steffan Davies, Jonathan Evans and Jack Rimmer, with Mathew Jones, Richard Ricketts and Joseph Saunders also on the bench.

“Unfortunately, two late Cardiff Met goals spoiled what would have been a terrific result for Gavin Allen in his first match as manager,” said a Club spokesman.

“Saturday was also the first competitive match played under strict COVID regulations, and although credit must go to all of those involved for their impeccable adherence to the new rules, this did mean there was no admittance for supporters.

“Had the Black and Green Army been allowed into Park Avenue, they would have no doubt been delighted to see no less than six local players in the starting 11, with another three on the bench.

“Due to the COVID-19 regulations, there will be no admittance to supporters in the next few games. However, once again, there will be comprehensive coverage of the match on our Twitter feed @AberystwythTown.”