Blackwood has spent the winter in France playing for Limoux Grizzlies in the French Elite League. His last game for the French outfit was on the 17th May when they were defeated in the French Grand Final.

Chairman Johnston said, “I spoke with Anthony before the end of the French season. Those negotiations have continued at some length with the player and his Agent. An agreement has now been reached and he will be travelling up to Barrow to train this week. We will continue to try and add to the squad but will not sign players for the sake of it or if it is not a good value for the club.”

A delighted Head Coach Nigel Wright commented, “Blackwood is a natural right centre which is a position we have had to use a variety of players to fill. The Chairman was well aware of that and also my concerns about the lack of someone who was experienced in that role, I know he has put in many hours chasing down Anthony as well as exploring other options and I am really grateful for his efforts on behalf of the club.

“Blackwood has a good pedigree, including a number of Super League games under his belt, and is familiar with the role I will want him to play. We will take a good look at him in training this week before deciding when he can be pitched into a game.”

Blackwood, who can also play in the second row, stands at 6’3” and weighs in at 15 stone. He was captain of the Leigh Academy side before moving to Halifax where he impressed enough to be snapped up by the Crusaders to play Super League.

He has previously been on loan at Barrow although his appearances were curtailed through injury. He played in the team that overcame Castleford in the Challenge Cup in 2010.