Barrow Raiders have signed the former Whitehaven half-back Alex Bishop on a one-year deal.
He becomes the club’s fourth new signing of the off-season, and the second from Betfred League 1 play-off finalists Keighley following Ellis Robson’s arrival last month.
Australia-born Bishop represented a number of clubs Down Under including the Redcliffe Dolphins and North Devils, playing for the Broncos and Storm feeder teams alongside numerous NRL players.
Bishop, now 30, came to Cumbria to join Whitehaven three years ago and spent two seasons with Whitehaven before making the move to Keighley last season.
At Cougar Park he made 14 appearances and scored four tries, which included three in his first four games.
He is also the grandson of legendary dummy-half Tommy Bishop, who made 39 appearances for Barrow in the 1960s and briefly managed the club in 1985, while also coaching at Workington Town.
Now Cumbria-based, and working at Sellafield, Bishop said: “I’m excited to be back playing in Cumbria, as it’s home for me now.
“I first got in touch with the club because I wanted to play with Kingy [Ryan King] and Curtis [Teare] again, and also help the Raiders achieve real success in 2025.
“I’ve spent a year in League 1 recovering from a knee injury, and now I’m ready to get back playing Championship rugby.
“Cumbrians are very passionate about their team, which makes games in these parts great to play in. I’m also excited to continue the connection that my family has with this great club.
“With the players already in the squad, I’m sure it will be a successful season.”
Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “It’s great news that Alex is on board for next season. From the moment he got in touch with me and expressed a desire to come and play for the club, I knew he could add an exciting new dynamic to the group.
“He came highly recommended by his team-mates who have already played alongside him at Whitehaven.
“We are looking forward to Alex playing a pivotal role in our squad for next season.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “Alex contacted the club and wanted to reunite with his former team-mates in Ryan and Curtis.
“We are all looking forward to seeing what he can bring to our squad for next year. He comes with a lot of pedigree, and I know he will give his all for the club.”
