Workington Town have swooped in to sign leading local amateur Tom Curwen from Seaton.

The highly-regarded forward had other offers on the table but decided to signed on the dotted line with Town this week.

And Town director of rugby Les Ashe was delighted to welcome the front rower on board.

"I have had the pleasure of coaching Tom for a couple of years back in 2014 and 2015, while I was at Seaton," said Ashe.

"I saw a lot of good things in his game, he has some great attributes.

"He has a really positive outlook and loves to train, he never misses it and is a good all-round front row forward."

This is Town's first foray into the amateur ranks this season and they have come up trumps with Curwen.

The 27-year-old will make the step up to semi-pro after an impressive few seasons in the Cumberland Men's League.

He was also part of the Cumbria side that won the 2015 Tri-County series.

Ashe believes this is the perfect time for Curwen to make the step up.

He added: "He is at a good age to test himself at a higher level and he is the type of local player that we are looking for.

"He did have another offer on the table but we are delighted that he has chosen to take this next step in his career with Workington Town."

Curwen only started playing rugby league at 20 after switching from football, previously appearing for Workington Reds.

But he has become an ever-present in the Seaton side, often playing the majority of the match.

Curwen thanked his amateur side for all their help and support but said he was looking forward to the new challenge, preparing for League One with Town.

He said: "Seaton have enabled me to progress in my rugby and I’ve played under some great coaches, who have helped me improve my game.

"They’re a great bunch of lads at Seaton but I now can’t wait for pre-season to start.

"I love my rugby league and I’m looking forward to stepping up to this level."