Whitehaven supporters were given a boost during their end-of-season presentation night when it was announced Jordan Burns and Jessie Joe Parker had signed for next season.

A good night was had by all as the awards were handed out, departing player-coach Carl Forster winning the Supporters Player of the Year.

Forster said: “It’s been a good night and topped the season off.

"It’s not nice to say your goodbyes but it’s time to go in a new direction.

“I’m massively proud of the lads after missing out on the play-offs on points-difference, and after making the final last season.

“More so this season because it’s been tough and, considering everything that’s gone on off the field, I’m a lot prouder of them for their efforts this season.

"I think only half of what’s gone on has been documented.

“Real credit to the boys. They’ve been a special group to work with.”

Forster has signed as coach for Rochdale Hornets for 2019, and added: “I’ll always look out for Haven in the results and I’m sure they’ll do well next season.

“They obviously have to recruit some players and they’ve obviously got the next man ready to take over. I wish them all the best.”

Dan Abram collected the News & Star / Whitehaven News Readers’ Player of the Year award, while Papua New Guinean legend Stanley Gene was the night’s special guest and handed out the remainder of the trophies.

Ellis Gillam was the Young Player of the Year, while Dave Thompson took the Directors’ Player of the Year and the Away Supporters’ Player of the Year awards.

The coaches’ Player of the Year was Jason Mossop, Marc Shackley picking up the Players’ Player of the Year trophy.

Club Person of the Year went to Cath Rooke, and Jimmy Clements presented Forster with a shirt signed by players and supporters, as thanks for his efforts on and off the field.