Will Hooley and Howard Packman join Bedford Blues

Bedford Blues have continued to add to their squad for the 2017/18 season by signing Exeter Chiefs fly-half Will Hooley and Northampton Saints winger Howard Packman.

Hooley, 24, is a former England Under 20 international who progressed through the Academy system at Northampton Saints and went on to make 14 first team appearances and scoring 77 points. He made his debut for the Chiefs against Clermont Auvergne in the 2015 Champions Cup and most recently featured in the Chiefs 36-14 Premiership win over Newcastle Falcons.

Packman, 21, joined Bedford on loan in January but has now made his move permanent, following some impressive displays in a Blues jersey. He made seven appearances for his hometown club, so far this season, scoring four tries in the process.

The speedster has represented England at Under 16, Under-17 and Under-18 levels as well featuring in every match in the 2014 Under 20s Six Nations Championship. Howard has also played for England Sevens in the 2014 HSBC Sevens World Series in Glasgow and London, and was also part of the victorious IRB Junior World Championship squad in New Zealand, scoring the try of the tournament against Ireland for good measure.

Speaking about the signings, Blues Director of Rugby Mike Rayer said: "With the departure of Myles Dorrian, it was vitally important that we brought in a talented number ten and I think that Will fits the bill perfectly. He has developed superbly during his time with the Saints and Exeter as well as having Championship experience with two seasons at Birmingham Moseley. I think that his style of play is perfect for Bedford and I'm sure the fans will love seeing him in action next season.

"Howard is a wonderful player and over the last few months we've really seen what he's all about and the hunger that he has on the field. Despite his young age, Howard has a very mature attitude to the game and I'm excited about seeing him really kicking on for us next season."