Barrow Raiders full-back Luke Cresswell has been granted a testimonial by the RFL for his services to rugby league.

Cresswell, who recently completed his 11th season at the club, has also penned a new deal that will see him remain a Raider until the end of the 2027 campaign.

Making his debut against Toulouse back in 2016, the experienced full-back has gone on to feature 204 times for the club in all competitions.

He passed the 200-game milestone back in August, during a campaign which saw him score 12 tries in 30 appearances and further cement his position as one of the Championship’s top full-backs.

Ahead of the 2026 season, Cresswell was also appointed to the role of vice-captain.

The 31-year-old has been a fan favourite for many seasons, and the club are excited to share in his testimonial celebrations, which will officially begin on December 1.

A testimonial fixture date has been provisionally scheduled for the weekend of January 2/3, with more information to be announced soon.

Further events to commemorate Cresswell’s testimonial year will also be confirmed in due course.

“I’m really happy to sign for another year,” he said.

“The culture we have created at this club has made it an easy decision.

“To be awarded a testimonial, which is something I have worked hard towards, is something I am really proud to have done with my hometown club.”

Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey said: “Luke Cresswell signing for another season is fantastic news for us as a club, but also for us as coaching staff.

“Luke is the ultimate professional, both in training and on a matchday. He is the perfect role model for any budding professional players in the area.

“Luke first came down to training and did a full year with us before being offered a contract. This is probably one of the best pieces of business the club has done in the last 20 years.

“His dedication and commitment to the Raiders has now resulted in him being granted a testimonial season by the RFL. A more fitting recipient I cannot think of.

“Luke played a major part of last year with a hernia, but insisted on waiting until the end of the year before having an operation to correct it.

“Luke will no doubt be a massive player for us this year, and deserves everything his testimonial will bring him.”

Director of rugby Andy Gaffney said: “When you think of a player bringing consistency on a week-to-week basis, Luke is someone who immediately springs to mind.

“He has been an incredible servant to Barrow Raiders over the years, and as he enters his 11th season with the club, being granted a testimonial year allows us to celebrate just how important he is.

“Luke has played a major role in some of our recent achievements, and we hope there is plenty more to come from him.”

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