New face and old hands commit to Workington Town

Workington Town have announced a clutch of re-signings – as well as the recruitment of a new face.

Four forwards Guy Graham, Ross Ainley, Lucas Castle and Callun Farrer will be back at the Fibrus Community Stadium next season while the newcomer is another forward, Tobias Gibson from Newcastle Thunder.

Gibson, who will be 21 on Christmas Eve, is a prop and a cross code player for as well as learning his rugby at the Siddal amateur rugby league club he also played union with Old Brodleians.

Despite missing his first scholarship year due to the Covid pandemic when he signed for Super League club Leeds, Gibson was active for both the Under-16s and Under-17s throughout 2021.

He started in convincing wins over Wakefield, Hull KR and Bradford Bulls for Mark Butterill’s side, plus he made two starts for the Under-17s.

He moved into the Academy in 2022 and despite injuries breaking up his season, he came off the bench three times in wins over Huddersfield, Castleford and Wakefield.

For the last two seasons he has been plying his trade with Newcastle Thunder in League One, playing a total of 36 games.

Town coach Jonty Gorley said: “I was tipped off about Tobias quite late into the off season and the deal was done pretty quickly after speaking to him.

“He is keen to prove himself at Town, and it wasn’t about money, which was refreshing, it’s about earning a place in my 17 each week.

“A big lad at 6ft4in and 17-and-a-half stones, he’ll definitely add size to us. Last year he was doing big minutes for Newcastle which is encouraging for his size.

“He comes from a good background in league after coming through the Leeds Rhinos youth system. Lads who come from SL clubs have always come with great attitudes.

“It’ll be good to see what Tobias can do, as it’s a great opportunity for him.’

That takes the Town squad so far to 20 and they are the following: