Newport Gwent Dragons release eight players

Newport Gwent Dragons have announced the release of eight players from their squad for next season.

Martyn Thomas, Tom Riley, James Leadbeater, Rhys Buckley, Gethin Robinson, Royce Cadman, Rhys Jenkins and Hugo Ellis will not be offered new contracts.

"The decision not to offer contract extensions to these players has been reached after discussions with head coach Darren Edwards and his coaching team, based on future business plans and the direction the management team and squad will follow," Dragons rugby director Robert Beale said.

"The players concerned have been formally thanked for their efforts while representing the regional team."