GEORGE Griffiths is relishing his return to Southend Saxons.

The classy centre first experienced senior rugby while at Warners Bridge as a teenager.

And he is thrilled to have made a return.

“I’m very pleased to be going back to Southend and it’s always been something I’ve wanted to do,” said the 25-year-old.

“I played the majority of my rugby at Southend from youth all the way to be giving a chance to play for the first team so it’s great to be back.”

Griffiths initially left Southend to play in South Africa.

But he then headed back to England to attend university which he combined alongside his rugby career.

“I left Southend to play over in South Africa for a short period before going to university where I joined Henley Hawks in Nat 2,” said Griffiths.

“Once I finished university I returned home and joined Rochford.”

But Griffiths is now fully focused on Southend.

And he is keen to start playing regularly again as the Saxons aim to build on being crowned Regional Two Anglia champions last season.

“My personal goal is to get back playing regular rugby after being sidelined and in and out of rugby for the past season due to injury,” said Griffiths.

“I would also like to bring something extra to a team who are already playing some amazing rugby and to help push Southend even further.”

Southend will be lining up Regional One South East next season.

And Griffiths feels it will be easier to settle in due to having already played for the club before “It helps massively knowing the club already and seeing familiar faces,” said Griffiths.

“I have been down a few times since leaving and always had a warm welcome.

“I’m looking forward to pre-season now and can’t wait to get stuck in.”

Southend have strengthened since the end of the previous campaign with BJ Tunde and Will Ferrier both signing along with Patrick Woodney who joined earlier this week.

“I’m very grateful to Southend for the opportunity to be a part of this special club,” said Woodney.

“I can’t wait to get stuck in.”