After 11 years at Workington Town, centre Jason Mossop has joined Whitehaven – his hometown club.

Mossop, 30, played more than 200 games for Town and, last year, was granted a testimonial by the Rugby Football League.

Speaking after signing a one-year deal with the Recreation Ground club, Mossop said: “It was a really difficult decision to leave Workington Town, where I have had 11 great seasons and made friends for life.

“I am, however, really excited about this new challenge, especially with the opportunity to play for my hometown club, and getting started with my new team-mates ready for the Championship season.”

Mossop played his junior rugby at Hensingham from Under-8 until he was 17 when he signed for Castleford. He was then sent out on-loan to Doncaster and Batley before agreeing a move to Derwent Park.

In making the switch to join Whitehaven, Mossop becomes the fifth player to sign from Workington during the winter break. He will find some familiar faces in Carl Forster’s squad – Callum Phillips, Kris Coward, Stuart Howarth and Phil Lister, while Karl Olstrum and Marc Shackley are already there from the previous season.

It gives player coach Forster a squad of 22 for the new season, as well as teenage prospect Jake Bradley who is on trial and training with his team.

Mossop played 22 times for Town in League One last season and scored nine tries.

Forster said “He’s a great signing for the club as he will add good depth in the back line. His experience will help the younger lads in the team.

“I can’t wait to see him in a Whitehaven shirt.“