IT’S a case of quality over quantity for Barrow Raiders in terms of their recruitment for 2026, with just two new signings announced. 

They have added Super League experience in signing locally-born prop Greg Richards from Toulouse, while flying winger and club favourite Tee Ritson returns on a permanent basis from St Helens. 

Another favourite son, Joe Bullock, also made his return to the club shortly before the end of last season as financial difficulties at Salford saw him leave the Red Devils. 

Having been the top dogs in Cumbria over recent seasons, the fact Whitehaven and Workington are now both at the same level as the Raiders does have some impact on their recruitment, though they will still fancy themselves to finish top of those three, despite facing a tougher fixture list. 

Paul Crarey has proven over many years how capable he is of coaching a Raiders team to punch above their weight, and if they make a good start, the top 10 should be achievable, but only if they can stay injury-free.

One to watch

With Aaron Smith departing, the door is open for 18-year-old Trent Ruddy to stake his claim for the dual-hooking role alongside first choice Josh Wood. 

Ruddy signed his first professional deal, a three-year one no less, after impressing as part of the club’s Furness Raiders Development Academy over the past two years. 

With the player market as it is, developing your own is the way forward and Ruddy could prove to be a gem for Barrow.

Squad: 1 Luke Cresswell, 2 Andrew Bulman, 3 Shane Toal, 4 Curtis Teare, 5 Luke Broadbent, 6 Brad Walker, 7 Ryan Johnston, 8 Tom Walker, 9 Josh Wood, 10 Joe Bullock, 11 Ellis Robson, 12 Matty Costello, 13 Ryan King, 14 Aiden Doolan, 15 Charlie Emslie, 16 Greg Richards, 17 Alex Bishop, 19 Seth Woodend, 20 Dan Knott, 21 Trent Ruddy, 22 Jarrad Stack, 23 Stevie Watson, 25 Tee Ritson

Ins: Tee Ritson (St Helens), Greg Richards (Toulouse), Aiden Doolan (Castleford – loan)

Outs: Ryan Shaw (retired), Delaine Gittens-Bedward, James Greenwood, Aaron Smith, Tom Wilkinson (all released), Aiden Doolan (Castleford), Finn McMillan (Wigan)