RUISLIP Rugby Club have signed two new players as they close in on the start of the season.

Paul Johnstone has joined as a winger. The 25-year-old has played for St Helens Rugby League academy and Worcester.

The ex-England Under 21 player had a spell out of the game but has opted to make a comeback.

Stuart Hofstetter is a former Ruislip youth player who is back at the club after studying at Chester University.

The 23-year-old prop forward also played for League North One club Chester.

Coach John Lacey said: "Negotiations are underway, but we face stiff opposition from other clubs that have much bigger budgets available.

"Some of them are offering players what we believe are unrealistic amounts for this level of the game.

"Although he still has a bit to do before being fully match fit, Paul has already demonstrated in training that he will be a big asset to the team.

"It's great to get young players like Stuart coming back here, especially when they've gained valuable experience with another club like Chester.

"And he obviously has a bright future in the game."

Meanwhile, Ruislip are in action this Saturday when they face Barnes, Reading and Havant in a four-team tournament in Barnes.