Blues re-sign Griffiths and Conlon

riffiths, 21, was a shining light in the Blues squad which reached the Championship semi-final last term and was named runner-up to Josh Buggea in the Player’s Player of the Season Award at the club dinner.

Conlon, 22, made a big impact on the field during his 14 appearances with the Blues last season and was always in the thick of the action despite suffering two nasty injuries during the campaign.

Speaking about the signings, Blues Director of Rugby Mike Rayer said: “Tom made a significant impact here last season and having a player of his quality available to us again is a big boost.

“Joel had an excellent season with us despite a serious injury which he suffered in pre-season. He developed extremely well during the campaign and we’re excited to see him really push on this time around.

“We have put together a really exciting squad, Tom and Joel know the brand of rugby that we play and I’m sure that they will once again make a huge contribution to the team.”

Originally from Gloucester, Griffiths previously helped Hartbury College to win their fourth consecutive AASE title in April 2013.

Starting off at fly half, he switched to centre while at school and has gone on to represent Saracens Storm throughout their A League campaign while also being called up to the England U20 squad.

Conlon had previously come through the Exeter Chiefs Academy with the likes of Henry Slade and Jack Nowell.

The back rower was part of England’s U20s title-winning teams in both the Six Nations and Junior World Championship and spent time on loan at Cornish Pirates on dual-registration from the Chiefs.

Meanwhile, Blues have announced two pre-season fixtures against Pontypridd - one at Sardis Road and one at Goldington Road - as well as a Friday night encounter against Premiership and European champions Saracens.