PORTHMADOG manager Craig Papirnyk has made a major signing in bringing Bangor City stalwart Sion Edwards to the Huws Gray Cymru Alliance club.

The search has been on at the Traeth for some time, to bring the right kind of experience to a squad which has some very exciting young talent within its ranks.

The midfielder was a free agent after leaving Bangor City last month, and will be given squad number 12 at Porthmadog.

“I have been a big admirer of Sion over the last decade,”commented Papirnyk.

“He’s a Bangor City legend, but all good things come to an end and his journey with them was full of successful times.

“He now joins us and is excited about the prospect of helping Porthmadog develop further and into successful times.

“His experience as well as quality will be a boost to what is already a very strong squad. I couldn’t pass up an offer on signing a player like Sion, and in all fairness he was the one that wanted to come to Port.

“His dad represented the club, and he felt it fitting that he should follow in the same path. Sion has turned down other offers and for me that signifies that he really wants to be here and playing for Port.

“I am delighted he has signed. He turned 30 in August and has a lot more still to give. He will strengthen us on the left side and bring the experience that is needed to help our young squad to develop further.

“I’m looking forward to working with a top player and welcome him to the club.”

Edwards certainly has an abundance of experience as his 232 (+93) Welsh Premier League appearances for Bangor testifies.

The 30 year old’s career spans a period of 12 seasons, having made his Bangor debut in 2006/07 and has netted 58 goals.

He was a key figure in a highly successful period for the Citizens under then manager Neville Powell, and played his part in lifting the Welsh Cup on three occasions, from five final appearances, and figured in seven European campaigns, as well as winning the Welsh Premier title.

The pacy left-sided midfielder or winger is full of aggressive running and has often given the Porth defence a testing time.

He was awarded the WPL Clubman of the Year title in October 2015 and was rewarded with a testimonial match in recognition of his dedication, loyalty and exemplary services to the club in August 2016.

He follows in his father Kevin Edwards’ footsteps, who also represented Porthmadog during seasons 1980/81 and 1981/82.

“It’s with a heavy heart that I have decided to part ways with Bangor City Football Club by mutual consent,” said Edwards.

“Bangor City has been such a huge part of my life, and it is incredibly difficult saying goodbye, but I feel it is something that’s in the best interests of all involved, including my family and the club itself.

“My decision is completely based on my wish to experience something different and to make sure I have no regrets when my playing career is eventually over.

“When I joined Bangor City from Wrexham all those years ago, I not only joined as a player but as a fan. I hope in my years wearing the Bangor shirt with pride I have fulfilled and repaid the trust and support that so many at the club have shown me.

“It has always been a privilege, and I will cherish the great memories that we have made from the Welsh Cup wins, winning the league and our travels in Europe.

“I wish the club and the team all the success for the the season and years to come.”