Barrow boy Pedley signs for Workington Town

By Helen Thompson

Last updated 12:43, Monday, 22 September 2008

Workington Town have signed promising Barrow youngster Jack Pedley on a one-year deal.

Promising: Jack Pedley

The 18-year-old hooker was part of Barrow’s promotion winning squad this year and is out to stake a claim for a regular place in Town’s line-up next season.

“He is an outstanding young talent and we are more than willing to give him first team opportunities at Workington to help develop his talent,” said Town director Les Smallwood.

“He has aspirations of playing in Super League and we gave the opportunity to Adam Sidlow to showcase his talents and he has gone on to earn a Super League deal with Salford so it shows it can happen from NL2.”

Pedley was a member of the Warrington Wolves scholarship scheme at both under-13 and under-14 levels before joining Barrow’s scholarship at under-15.

He then spent a season in the under-21s, aged 17, before making his breakthrough this year.

He debuted for Barrow’s first team against Leigh this season, after playing in both friendlies against Warrington and St Helens.

Fans at the Barrow club rate his as one of their top prospects and were disappointed to see him leave Craven Park.

And Town are keen to stress that Pedley is the first of many they are hoping to sign for next season.

Smallwood added: “He is the first of hopefully many new signings to come to the club, the squad will have a completely different look from last year.”