Craig Jones is looking forward to the new rugby season and it’s not difficult to see why.

The Old Patesians Rugby Club coach is buzzing after three players have confirmed they will play for the South West One East side this season.

Prop Dan Burnham has joined from Cheltenham Saracens, fly-half Tom Eddolls has linked up with the club after spells as player/coach at Westbury and Gordon League, and Lee Hathaway has rejoined the club after starting the last campaign with Cinderford.

“I’m absolutely delighted,” said Jones, who has confirmed that he will play on occasions for Pats this season if needed. “They’re all good players and will certainly add to the strength of the club.”

Burnham, 26, was at loosehead in the Saracens side that defeated Old Patesians 2nds to win the Cheltenham Combination Senior Cup at the end of last season.

“He’s very highly rated and he’s a massive signing for us,” said Jones. “He played out in Australia for two seasons and did so well that he played for the equivalent of New South Wales’ county side.

“He can play on both sides of the scrum and our club captain Connor Thompson spoke very highly of him after the final. Anyone Connor says is a good player is worth his weight in gold.

“He wanted to step up a level and he’s still nowhere near his prime. He’s a massive bonus for us.”

Eddolls, meanwhile, wants to concentrate on playing after his spells as a player-coach and Jones, a fly-half himself, has liked what he’s seen in training.

“Obviously I haven’t seen him in a match yet but he’s certainly looked very good in pre-season,” said Jones. “He’s got good ball skills and footwork, and has the ability to make the right decisions. He most certainly adds to the squad.”

Eddolls could get an early chance if he continues to impress because last season’s regular 10, Luke Offa, is recovering from a broken cheekbone sustained at the end of last season and is yet to start training again.

Lee Hathaway’s signing completes a happy hat-trick for Jones. “He can play 15, 13 or on the wing,” said Jones. “He’s only a young boy – 20-21 – and he’s another massive signing.

“He helped us out a couple of times last season when we were short but he didn’t train. This season he’s been doing the full pre-season.

“He’s a very good player. He’s played for the county under-20s and can play at a much higher level.”