Lewis Robling signs for the Blues

Bedford Blues have announced the signing of Welsh centre Lewis Robling from Championship rivals Ealing Trailfinders for the 2018/19 season.

Robling, 26, had one season with the west London club making 15 appearances and scoring three tries but he'd previously spent three years with Jersey Reds where he made 60 appearances in the league and cup.

Robling came through the ranks at the Dragons Academy and later played for the senior side, Newport, Cross Keys and Bedwas as well as picking up International Honours with Wales Under 20s.

Speaking about the signing, Blues Director of Rugby Mike Rayer said: "The capture of Lewis is a great one for us as he is a player with great Championship pedigree and someone we know will fit in straight away with our brand of rugby.

Alex Rae spoke very highly about Lewis following their time in Jersey and we're really looking forward to welcoming him to Goldington Road.

Robling made his debut for Newport Gwent Dragons versus Glasgow on 7th October 2011. He scored his first try for the Dragons in the 21-20 win against the Ospreys in January 2012.

Having started his career at fly half, Robling made the move to centre and has grown a reputation for being a strong attacking force who is always happy to put his body on the line in defence.

Lewis, who will join up with his new team mates for pre-season training next month, takes the Blues squad number for 2018/19 up to 24 alongside fellow new signings Ed Coulson, Oli Curry, Charlie Clare and Hayden King plus current Blues stars Alex Penny, Jacob Fields, Huw Worthington, Ryan Hutler, Justin Blanchet, Camilo Parilli-Ocampo, Dean Adamson, Rich Lane, Will Carrick-Smith, Harry Sheppard, Josh Buggea, Will Hooley, Ed Taylor, Lee Dickson, Alex Rae, Jarad Williams, Chris Czekaj, Sean McCarthy and Ben Cooper.