Paul Wood joins Swinton

Swinton have signed ex-England international Paul Wood on a deal until the end of the season.

The 36-year-old front-rower recently came out of retirement to help Whitehaven in their bid to reach the League 1 play-offs, but it didn’t work out for both parties.

Wood spent 15 years at Warrington Wolves, scoring 37 tries in 237 appearances, before joining Featherstone Rovers for the 2015 season.

The two-time England international is delighted to make a return to playing.

He said: “After the Whitehaven deal fell through due to the takeover not happening I felt gutted, I’d prepared myself to play and be part of a team again.

“Since it became public knowledge the deal wasn’t happening I was contacted by a few clubs to see if I would be interested to help them out at the back end of the season.

“I spoke to Stuart Littler at the Legends game between Yorkshire and Lancashire which Stuart and I both played in and after the match he said if I was interested there may be a position open at Swinton Lions.

“After a few conversations I decided to join the Lions. It seems all the clubs I’ve spoken to just want an experienced head in their team and someone that will give 100% that will bring a bit more confidence to the team and I’m hoping that I can help the young lads within the team help secure a Championship spot for Swinton next year.”