Gareth Raynor has won six caps for Great Britain

Crusaders have signed Great Britain international winger Gareth Raynor following his release from Hull FC at the end of last year.

The 31-year-old is coach Brian Noble's ninth signing and third from Hull joining earlier arrivals Jamie Thackray and youngster Tommy Lee.

"The squad is coming together nicely now," said Crusaders first team coach Jon Sharp.

"Gareth arrived today and he is fitting in very well already."

Raynor joined Hull after a brief spell with Leeds Rhinos, having started his career with rugby union side Leeds Tykes.

He returned to union, joining Leicester in 2002, but only made two starts, prompting a third, more successful switch of codes.

After establishing himself in the Hull side, Raynor also gained international recognition, winning six caps for Great Britain and scoring the winning try in the 2006 Tri-Nations victory against Australia in Sydney.

However, the last season was disrupted by injury, while Raynor also has a court appearance set for April where, along with partner Catriona Thompson, he will face charges of counterfeiting and fraud relating to the alleged trading of ink cartridges and copying of computer games.

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