RHYL have bolstered their defensive ranks with the signing of defender Will Bell.

The experienced player arrives from JD Welsh Premier League side Bala Town, and Bell has been cleared to feature for Matthew Jones’ side in their crunch clash at Huws Gray Alliance leaders Caernarfon Town on Saturday.

Bell has made 47 appearances for the Lakesiders under Colin Caton, and has also turned out for Aberystwyth Town.

The 23-year-old progressed through the academy system at Morecambe and will provide further options for the club and will strengthen the defence.

A club spokesman, said: “Rhyl Football Club would like to thank Colin Caton and Ruth Crump for their assistance in ensuring that the transfer went through smoothly enabling Will to be available for selection this weekend.”

The Lilywhites face a make-or-break encounter with the Canaries in their quest for an immediate return to the top flight, with Jones’ side currently eight points behind their promotion rivals in the standings having played one game more than Sean Eardley’s high flyers.

They come into the game on the back of a disappointing collapse against Porthmadog in a game the title hopefuls eventually lost 5-4 late on, while the Cofis also left it late to come from two behind with ten men to rescue a 3-3 draw at a dangerous Denbigh Town outfit.

Earlier this week squad mainstay Alex Jones announced his retirement from the game following a new job bringing increased commitments.

Director of Football Mark Connolly, said: “Alex has always worn his heart on his sleeve and has gone into every game giving 100 per cent, which as a player sets the tone for the rest of the team around him.

“His character around the dressing room will be missed, but I’m sure we will see him attending some games when he isn’t working."