SAINTS centre Konrad Hurrell’s relief that his family is safe following the devastation caused to Tonga by the volcanic eruption and tsunami is tinged with the sadness in knowing plenty of others in the region are less fortunate.

With homes destroyed, food scarce and drinking water contaminated by the volcanic ash, the island kingdom desperately needs help.

And Tonga international Hurrell has vowed to join the sport of rugby league in any way he can to help support the mission.

Initially communication from the island was lost due to the effect of the underwater volcanic eruption, but late last week he finally made contact with his family.

"Obviously it's been a tough couple of weeks but I finally got through to my sister and through to my dad," he said.

"I always hate saying that my family are safe and warm with food and water because there are a lot of families struggling in Tonga right now.

"I hope people there are okay and I'm sure they are working through it to help each other to get through this with their families.

"I just can't imagine being there at the time when the tsunami happened."

Saints have a strong Tongs link, with Saints Kristian Woolf being national coach and with Will Hopoate and Agnatius Paasi making it a trio of players. 

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The Rugby Football League will dedicate funds raised from the 2022 Combined Nations All Stars jersey when they face England in June to the people of Tonga, and Hurrell is keen to play his part in the fundraiser.

"I'd love to play in that game for the All Stars, especially for a cause like this," he said.

"I'd love to give something back to my little country and testing yourself against England is something I'd want to do anyway.

"But at the same time it's a big help for the families back home in Tonga.

"All the funds raised from the jersey will give back to families affected. Even if I don't get picked for the team, I'd still love to get amongst it and help out in any way I can."