A second member of Workington’s successful promotion-winning squad is leaving the club.
Defender Charlie Birch, a former Carlisle United youth team player, is leaving to further his education in the USA.
Earlier in the week striker Ruben Jerome also announced that he was leaving after completing three years with the Reds.
Birch said: “I’ll be leaving Workington to further my education by doing a masters degree. I’ve been fortunate to gain a football scholarship in North Carolina.
“I’ll be studying for a master of arts in organisational leadership masters degree and playing full time for the university alongside this.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff, fans and players at Workington for making me feel so welcome and giving me this opportunity to play in what’s been a memorable season and would like to wish everyone the best for the forthcoming season and hopefully see you all soon.”
Manager Danny Grainger said: “Charlie has had a good season and has been a huge part of our success this season. I’m gutted to see Charlie leave but wish him all the best for the future and hopefully see him back in a Reds shirt one day.”
The 21-year-old son of former professional Mark Birch, who now heads up Carlisle United’s youth section, played one senior game for the Blues, coming on as a substitute in 2019 at Colchester.
He subsequently spent a near season long loan at Kendal Town in the NPL Division One West before linking up with Annan in the Scottish League Two.
He also had a spell at Penrith before signing for Reds when Grainger was appointed manager for a second time.
