PORTHMADOG manager Craig Papirnyk has strengthened his squad ahead of their new Cymru Alliance campaign.

The Traeth squad are boosted by the return of former Bangor City striker Chris Jones, who was an influential player during his previous stint at the Traeth.

Jones had spent two seasons at the Traeth between 2008 and 2010, scoring 13 goals in his 75 appearances, having previously featured for Caernarfon Town and Llangefni Town.A former Wales Under 19s and Under 20s international, he had also previously represented Leeds United, Bournemouth and Irish club Limerick.

In his six seasons at Bangor City, featured in all 10 of City’s most recent European ties, scoring in both legs of the 3-2 aggregate win over Honka Espoo (Finland) in the UEFA Europa League.An integral part of the Welsh Premier League title-winning side of 2010/11, he proved himself to be a firm favourite with the Bangor City faithful.

In total, he made a total of 259 appearances (plus 38 as a substitute) in the Welsh Premier League, netting 56 goals in the process.

“He has naturally attracted lots of attention, and numerous clubs were in contact with him, but his decision has been made and he will return to us, a club that he respects and knows well," said Porthmadog boss Papirnyk.

"Having spoken to Chris a few times it was obvious that he had a passion for the club.

“Chris will bring experience and quality to our squad, as well as adding a real threat in our attacking line. His signature is a clear indication on where we want to be.“Meanwhile Iolo Hughes has also returned to Porthmadog on a permanent basis after leaving Welsh Premier League outfit Bangor City.

The 20 year-old Bethel-based left back spent half a season on loan with Porthamdog last season, having been at Bangor from the early stages of youth football.

“Iolo has a lot to offer," said Porthmadog boss Craig Papirnyk.

"He started extremely well for us last season, and showed that he is a very good defender as well as being able to net goals.

"He began to pick up some injuries and his performances, as well as that of the team dropped during those difficult months for us leading up to Christmas. He then returned to Bangor to finish the season."

Papirnyk added: “Loan players sometimes, but not in all cases, will have their parent club in the back of their mind, and this I believe can hold back a player.

"This time Iolo will come back to Port and will be our player from the start, this brings a different mentality and I know he wants to prove a lot of people wrong.

"He has the character to do that and will work hard for us as a Porthmadog player."

Also joining the Traeth club from Glantraeth is 19 year-old defender Tomos Clarke.

"Clarke is a tall, strong and athletic player who is technically sound and will us more strength in depth in defence," said Papirnyk.

"I’m looking forward to working with him and watching him develop as a player with us.

"He was at Oldham Athletic as a youth player and gained caps for Wales at U17s level."

Porthmadog enjoyed a good workout at Llandyrnog United on Tuesday night when recording a 5-0 win, with goals from Asa Hamilton, from the spot, Iddon Price, Cai Jones and a Jamie McDaid double.