BARROW Raiders Ladies have announced the signing of utility forward Nicole Stewart.

The 25-year-old goal kicker joins the Raiders from Workington Zebra Finches having spent the last seven years as a fly-half at the rugby union club.

Last season, Stewart, who is born in Whitehaven, scored 140 points for her former club as they became the first team to win the Papa Johns Community Plate in back-to-back years.

She began her career by representing American football team Cumbria Wildcats for two years after enjoying playing rugby league in secondary school.

Now the Raiders Ladies’ newest signing is looking forward to rising to the challenge of competing in the Betfred Women’s Super League.

Speaking to the club website, she said: “To play for Barrow is a massive honour for me, and to be a part of a squad competing at the highest level is something special.

“I’m ready for the challenge ahead, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Making the switch from rugby union to rugby league, head coach Amanda Wilkinson was full of praise for her new signing, admitting that she was looking forward to seeing what Stewart can do in Raiders colours.

“Everyone has spoken well of her,” Wilkinson told the club website. “She has great skill in taking on the defence, has good footwork, vision and is strong in defence.

“When I went to watch her play for Workington, she impressed me by taking on the defence with her two-handed carry, dummy and footwork, beating them numerous times.

“She has an excellent passing range and is equally strong in defence. I’m looking forward to coaching her.”

Stewart will be in contention for selection for the Raiders Ladies’ upcoming fixtures, starting with a trip to York Valkyrie on July 7.