COUGARS have been given a boost in the wake of their relegation after Danny Jones and Paul Handforth signed new one-year deals for next season.

Paul March’s side suffered a dramatic final-day defeat at the hands of Featherstone on Sunday, condemning them to the third tier next season.

But after winger Paul White signed a new one-year deal, half-backs Jones and Handforth have now done likewise.

A statement on the club’s official website said: “Tiger and Jonesy have shown their commitment to the club today by signing for next season. 

“Despite having to take a hit in the pocket to do so they have pledged themselves to next year’s campaign.”

Meanwhile, an online petition has been launched to reinstate Cougars to the Championship following their controversial relegation which saw Batley survive despite being found guilty of breaching rules over dual registration.