HENLEY Hawks have snapped up 13 new players as they prepare for life back in National 1.

Hawks, who were promoted as National 2 South champions, have lost four of last season’s title-winning squad.

But they are confident the new recruits have strengthened their ranks for the improved opposition they will face.

Hawks have boosted their back-row options with four signings, including Cinderford captain Luke Allen.

Openside flanker Ryan Long returns to Dry Leas, while Matt Reeves moves from Oxford Harlequins and youngster Rowan Halsall joins from Ealing’s development squad.

Veteran lock James Winterbottom has retired, while dual-registered Wasps trio Will Robinson, Nathan Morris and Jonah Holmes have moved on to London Welsh and, in Holmes’s case, Leeds.

Henley have signed former Southern Canterbury (New Zealand) second row Tom McGregor and ex-Coventry prop Matt Weller, who has been playing in Spain.

Wing/full back Will Jones returns to Henley after playing for Cardiff RFC while at university in the city.

Centre Luke Burns, a Henley regular from 2005-08, is also back. Scrum half and Ireland age group player Mark Bruce joins from Falkirk, while former Grove and Newport utility back Alan Awcock is another signing.

Fly halves Guy Swadling (Hinckley) and Elliott Markham (Loughborough Students) add to Henley’s options at No 10.

Wing Tom Howe comes into Hawks’ squad from London Wasps Academy.

Long term injuries will prevent flankers Ryan Newman and Ben Ashmore, plus scrum half Jack Shaylor starting the season.

Henley’s first pre-season game is at home to National 2 North side Chester on Saturday.

Hawks visit Cardiff side Bedwas on August 17, before hosting London Welsh on August 31. They open their National 1 campaign at home to Tynedale on September 7.