As was being predicted in local rugby league circles, Workington Town have signed Mason Lewthwaite, days after his release by Whitehaven.
The former Kells forward had been among a clutch of amateurs signed by Haven as they rebuilt their squad following relegation from the Championship.
But when he indicated he wasn’t planning to stay at the Recreation Ground next season, coach Anthony Murray was happy to allow him to leave.
There were suggestions that the two West Cumbrian neighbours would do a deal and that Ciaran Walker, Town’s scrum-half, would move in the opposite direction. Walker is out of favour and playing on dual registration with his former amateur club Seaton Rangers.
But that isn’t going to happen this season as Walker, who scored a try and kicked nine goals for Seaton on Saturday, bides his time.
However, Town are delighted to have wrapped up the Lewthwaite deal and he will be in contention for a place in the squad for next Sunday’s home clash with Keighley Cougars.
Lewthwaite has agreed a deal until the end of the 2026 season and joins Town at a key time in the League One season as they attempt to build on two good wins on the trot against Midlands Hurricanes and Whitehaven.
Talking about recruiting Lewthwaite Town coach Jonty Gorley said: “I tried to sign Mason two years ago when I was at Whitehaven but he had rugby union commitments at that time.
“Then I looked at Mason at the start of our season, but he opted for Whitehaven.
“He’s a line-breaking back rower, who can cover centre, but I do primarily see him as a back rower.
“We’ve signed Mason for next season, but when the opportunity came up to take him for the rest of this year, I jumped at the chance, especially as we’re missing Caine Barnes and Jake Bradley in that position and suffered an injury to Zach Jebson.
“Mason was Whitehaven’s top try scorer, which for a back rower who’s played a lot off the bench is a great return, showing what a strike player he is.”
