England Academy and Castleford Tigers star Conor Fitzsimons has been snapped up by Workington Town on a season-long loan.

Town were delighted to pull off the signing of the former Seaton Rangers youngster, who has been impressing with the Super League outfit.

The 18-year-old loose forward, who can also play prop, was also a member of the Cumbria RFL Academy Town coach Dave Clark headed up.

A regular in the Castleford Under-19 team, Fitzsimons broke into the first team on two occasions last season and impressed head coach Daryl Powell.

Town boss Dave Clark said: "I’m really excited to sign Conor.

"He is a model rugby league player who trains hard, looks after himself and as well as being a strong, direct runner is a very skillful rugby league player.

"When I had one of my regular chats with Pete Riding [Castleford Head of Youth], it became apparent Cas were looking to his further development through regular professional rugby and I jumped at the chance.

"I recently toured with the England Academy in Australia so I know exactly what attributes he can bring to Town next year.

"Not only will he stand out as a talented player in his own right, he will help with our young development players because he has spent last season in a Super League environment.

"He was always a joy to coach and I look forward to working with him again."

Fitzsimons is keen to get into action with his home club and says the local derby will be one of the highlights for him.

He said:"I’m really looking forward to working with Dave Clark again.

"He has very high expectations and my game improved steadily when he was my coach at the Academy.

"This year will be a great way to get regular game time in a very competitive league.

"I’m particularly looking forward to playing in the Workington - Whitehaven derby as I’ve watched so many from the terraces.

"Playing for my home town team will be a great honour and I can’t wait to join up with Jason Mossop who was my coach and teacher at school."

Castleford Head of Youth Pete Riding added this was a great opportunity for Conor.

"It’s a perfect fit for him at this stage in his development to play first team rugby on a consistent basis," he said.

"Dave Clark is a very good coach and the environment that he is creating at Workington is one we believe Conor will thrive in."

Fitzsimons will complete his pre-season with Castleford and then join Workington from February 1.