Whitehaven have retained the services of prop forward Glen Riley to reach coach Carl Forster’s targeted squad of 25 players.

The bulk of those players have signed-up in a hectic round of talks over the last fortnight and Forster is "over the moon" his squad has come together so quickly.

Riley is clearly an important re-signing by Whitehaven, especially as he had been linked with a return to the Super League.

The 24-year-old, who started his career with Wath Brow Hornets before being signed by Warrington Wolves, returned to his home county last season when Whitehaven pipped neighbours Workington Town to his signature.

He started 20 matches in the Championship for the Recreation Ground club in the season just ended and scored two tries.

He had previously played Super League and Challenge Cup games for Warrington and in the Championship for London Broncos.

He also spent time on loan with Swinton when they were in League One.

Whitehaven director Gary Eilbeck said: "To retain Glen's services for next year is an enormous coup for the club.

"We all know about his size, strength and commitment. Our pack is going to be formidable next season.”

Riley said: “I am really chuffed to be signing back on. Carl Forster is such an inspiring coach.

"If you could bottle his enthusiasm, we would all be millionaires.

“I am just like all the others that want to start tomorrow.

"I have never know such a buzz among the lads and it's great to be part of that."

Meanwhile the club, which has adopted a positive attitude to their relegation from the Championship, plans to announce new financial initiatives over the coming weeks.

Director Eilbeck said: “I hope that the range of things we offer will appeal to a wide section of the fans.

"It's all about bringing more money into the club in order to get back into the Championship and spreading that financial burden more widely.

“I am urging fans to get behind the club and its efforts to put together a promotion-winning squad.

"We need everyone to pull together to keep this talented group together."