SAINTS' double-winning squad continues to break-up . . .

This week Saints putting the final touches to the transfer of internationals Alan Hunte and Steve Prescott and Simon Booth to newly promoted Hull Sharks.

The fee is about £350,000 - but the money won't be burning a hole in Saints' pocket as they look for replacements.

Knowsley Road chief executive David Howes said: "Clubs will be aware that we have received this money and we need to re-invest some of it, so the transfer market will be inflationary.

"We will be biding our time until the right players become available. We will be looking in both hemispheres at both codes."

Hunte, who played in the autumn's Test series against Australia, was the longest serving player at Knowsley Road.

He scored for Saints at Wembley against Wigan in the 13-8 defeat in 1991. He joined the club from Wakefield Trinity in 1989.

Local product Prescott, touched down twice in the never-to-be-forgotten victory over Bradford in 1996 a game that also saw Booth touch down in one of his limited first team outings.

The triple transfer means six members of the squad who won the double in 1996 have now left the club.

Adam Fogarty, who left the club at the end of that season, last week signed a one-year deal with Warrington Wolves.

Andy Northey is now in Rugby Union with Northampton.

And Aussie forward Derek McVey was released at the end of the 1997 season.

Saints have vowed to continue with their Alliance squad.

Neighbours Wigan and Warrington have scrapped their reserve teams.

But Saints see the A team as a vital link in their youngsters' graduation to Super League rugby.

Saints are reporting brisk trade in their new town centre outlet at What Everyone Wants in Church Street.

Replicas of Saints' new away strip won't be available until February.

It's expected details of Saints' season tickets for next season will be announced next week.

The Luke Bryan Testimonial Committee has organised a Christmas draw, which includes prizes donated by Saints and Wigan,

Volunteers are neeed to sell tickets and they are asked to contact Linda Travis on 1942 276293 or George Anderton on 01744 734614.

And a fashion show is being held at Haydock Cricket Club on Monday, December 1 (7.30).

Admission is £1.

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