Barrow-born Greg Richards is coming home after signing for the Raiders ahead of the 2026 season.
The 30-year-old prop forward, a former pupil of Ulverston Victoria High School, started his rugby league career with Barrow Island before joining the St Helens academy.
With Saints he had his first taste of silverware, featuring from the bench in their 24-6 Grand Final victory over Wigan Warriors in 2014.
Richards has gone on to represent Leigh, London Broncos and Hull KR, and during his time in the professional game, the 30-year-old has amassed more than 100 Super League appearances.
He made the move to Toulouse Olympique ahead of the 2023 season, featuring 25 times during his debut campaign in the south of France.
A further 15 appearances have followed for Richards, who now joins his hometown club ahead of the return of an expanded, new-look Betfred Championship in 2026 with over 200 senior games under his belt.
Roberts said: “I’m over the moon, It’s my hometown club and I used to watch them as a kid, so to be able to represent the town is amazing.
“I can’t wait to get started with the team, and hopefully we can have a good year.”
Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “It’s great news that we can announce the signing of a former Super League forward in Greg Richards.
“Greg is a Barrow lad who wants to play for his hometown team. He brings massive experience and will be a major asset for us next year, in what is already building towards an exciting Championship season.”
Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “From our initial conversations with Greg, it was clear how much it meant to get the chance to represent his hometown club.
“This is a full circle moment for Greg. He enjoyed real success coming through at St Helens and has gone on to play for several top clubs in the UK and abroad.
“He returns to England hungry to prove himself in Barrow Raiders colours, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome him into our group.”
