West Cumbrian-based prop forward Tom Walker has returned to his former club Barrow Raiders on a two-year deal.
Walker, who made 73 appearances for the Raiders during his first spell between 2017-19, has arrived at Craven Park for an undisclosed fee.
The 28-year-old front-rower helped the Raiders to promotion from Betfred League 1 in his first year at the club before moving to fellow Cumbrian side Whitehaven ahead of the 2020 season.
He went on to feature 55 times for Haven, and his performances during the 2023 campaign saw him named in RL World’s Betfred Championship Team of the Year – despite only making 10 appearances.
Discussing his return Walker said: “I’m really excited, and it’s a massive relief. It’s no secret that I’ve done it tough over the last six months for one reason or another, but I know Cresta [Paul Crarey] has a lot of faith in me.
“With the way I played last season, I think I can bring a lot to the team and really help us challenge the best sides in this division.
“I’ve been at the club before, so I know how Cresta likes to play and what he expects from his squad. I think I’ve matured a lot over recent seasons and I’m a different player now, so I want to play my part in bringing success to this team in 2024 and beyond.
“There’s a lot of competition in the forward pack, which is good because it’ll help bring the best out of my game. There’s some quality in this squad, and I hope that I can add to that.
“I’d like to mention Andy Gaffney for the work put in behind the scenes too. He’s done a lot for me, and I can’t thank him enough.”
Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “Everyone at the Raiders is delighted with the signing of Tom. He has obviously played at Barrow before, and when he told us he was available, we had no hesitation in trying to secure his services.
“It would not have been possible without the help of the newly-formed Blue and White Knights consortium – especially Kristian Wilkes, Jamie Lindsey and Dave Gibson, whose financial input helped massively with the transfer fee. Chairman Steve Neale and Andy Gaffney also worked tirelessly to get the deal over the line.
“Tom was magnificent in his first spell with us, and we are delighted he has joined up with us again. He is a model professional and will undoubtedly add to our firepower up front, as well as being an absolute giant who gives his all defensively.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “We are pleased to announce Tom Walker, who is without doubt one of the best prop forwards not only in Cumbria, but the Championship as a whole.
“After Tom approached us, it was a no-brainer that we would try and bring him in, and I’m sure he will have a big impact on the pitch next season.”
Walker, who will be 29 on Christmas Day, started his career with the third Cumbrian club Workington Town.
