NORTH WALES CRUSADERS have handed new deals to halfback Toby Hughes and forward Paddy Jones.

Hughes was a key part of the side in 2024 but has had to be patient for chances this season, acting as understudy to experienced pair Jordy Gibson and Jamie Dallimore.

Coach Carl Forster said: “It’s great to keep Toby at the club. The improvement we’ve seen this season has been outstanding and in any other team I believe he plays every week.

“He’s keen to learn and pick the brains of the senior guys in the group.

“His hard work behind the scenes hasn’t gone unnoticed this year, and I’ve no doubt we will see a lot more of Toby in a Crusaders shirt.”

Jones (above) returned to the professional game with North Wales this season, having previously been with Swinton.

Forster added: “Paddy has fitted into the group really well this year, he does a really unselfish job for the team and does it well.

“He’s improving with every game, and I’ve got no doubt he will keep doing so next season.”

It was reported following the announcement of the merged Championship and League One competitions for next season that North Wales have also thrown their hat in to the application ring for the two additional places in Super League for 2026.