Whitehaven have signed a former university team-mate of winger Oscar Doran.
A utility forward, Evan Lawther has joined Haven on a 12-month deal.
The former Newcastle player had two spells with Thunder including making his first team debut for them earlier in the 2023 season.
He has also represented North East Universities in their origin clashes with North West.
He has also been playing alongside fellow Haven team mate Oscar Doran for Northumbria University who are the current university national champions, winning the title on five consecutive occasions from 2016/17-2022/23.
Whitehaven head coach Jonty Gorley said: “We looked at Evan last year but at the time he was sent to us I already had cover in positions he covers but when he came available again we moved in to sign him.
“Evan has been with Newcastle Thunder playing mainly as a centre but latterly as a back row and that’s the position I’ve signed him to play.
“I need competition in that area and Evan will bring that. He’s quite a big lad with decent pace and I do think he’s more suited to back row because of these qualities.
“He’s a threat carrying the ball and that’s what we need. It’ll be great to get started with Evan because I don’t think he’s reached his potential yet.”
