RHAYADER Town Football Club will compete in the new national third division next season.

The Red Kites join local rivals Llandrindod Wells in a 16 club south east Wales league set to kick off next season.

Director of football Dai Davies said: “This is a massive achievement for the club and we really honoured to be representing mid Wales football in tier three South East.

“We have worked immensely hard over the past few years behind the scenes putting a platform in place that works with our young local lads.

“We have been preparing for all scenarios and hopefully now that the tier three status has been confirmed we will have some exciting announcements coming up soon.”

The club has wasted no time in preparing for the new campaign with Davies appointed director of football as part of a new coaching set-up.

Former Newtown and Aberystwyth Town player Gareth Hughes has been appointed manager with Rhys Thomas and Mark Davies completing the coaching set-up.

Chairman Gareth Earp welcomed the appointments.

He said: “It is crucial that we get this in place so the planning can finally start.

Dai has been so influential in bringing through our talented young lads and can now concentrate on all football related matters within the club and provide Gareth with full support.

“Gareth’s appointment is a massive boost to the club after previously managing the side to become Mid Wales League One champions and is a huge figure in Mid Wales football, bringing so much experience and expertise.”