The Dragons have confirmed the signing of back-rower Hywel Stoddart on a 12-month contract.
Stoddart, the younger brother of Wales and Scarlets winger Morgan, made one appearance for the region last season.
The 26-year-old had been called up from Newport as cover during the RBS Six Nations - and having been an unused replacement against the Cardiff Blues, he came off the bench against Edinburgh.
Stoddart, though, is delighted to have been handed a deal for the 2012/13 season.
He told the club's official website: "I got called up to the bench a couple of times last season, first against the Blues and then got on to the pitch against Edinburgh and both were a great experience for me. I'm just really pleased that I am getting the chance to do it full-time now.
"Obviously there is a very competitive back row here but I hope to challenge for a place in the match day squad, get some game time and impress when I get the chance."
