Barrow Raiders would like to thank four players who will not be joining us for the 2021 season; Wartovo Puara, Jono Smith, Perry Singleton and Lee Jewitt
Watts agreed terms for two years in 2019 but the restrictions of the Tier 5 sporting visa meant that we were only able to sign one year at a time. Given the pandemic, Watts returned to PNG in March and we opened discussions around his return during the summer. Given the uncertainty of the situation Watts was unable to commit to 2021 but the door is very much ajar and we hope to secure his return for 2022 as well as seeing him in the UK representing PNG in the Autumn’s World Cup. Watts has been a tremendous ambassador for his country and his infectious enthusiasm has made him an honorary Barrovian. His work in the schools and the community programme was instrumental in us winning our Love Barrow award and we would love to see him return when the time is right.
Jono Smith has joined North Wales Crusaders and he will be fondly remembered as a fans favourite. He has picked up numerous awards during his time with Barrow and was a true warrior, playing through the pain barrier on many occasions. Jono will be sadly missed and he was offered terms to stay but he wanted to finish his professional career where it started in North Wales.
Perry Singleton and Lee Jewitt, we only saw briefly before the pandemic struck and have moved on to Workington Town and Widnes respectively. For the short time they were with us they were never less than professional, and we are sure they would have made a big impact in our push for promotion. We wish them both well.
We would also like to thank the sponsors of these players, whose support we could not do without:
Wartovo Puara sponsored by Ray McGuire
Jono Smith sponsored by Neil Kummer
Perry Singleton sponsored by Damptec Ltd
Lee Jewitt sponsored by Lisa Neale, South Cumbria Shared Lives
We are sure our fans would like to wish these players all the best for the future.