Christmas has come early for Whitehaven RLFC supporters as the club have announced the contract extensions of two fan favourites.

The side took to social media on Wednesday night to reveal that 28-year-old Karl Dixon had agreed a new 12-month contract at the club.

Jonty Gorley, who takes over as Head Coach for the 2022 season, shared his delight at the deal, saying: “I'm absolutely buzzing about Karl signing back on with Whitehaven for next season, he's been brilliant for us again this year, like I knew he would be.

He's proved this year what an asset he is, he's without doubt stepped up to championship rugby and I expect him to be at the forefront of what we do well next year.

When Karl has the ball in hand he is a massive threat, he is a big lad who has a great running game and he can also find the right pass. He proved to be a handy defender on our left side too.

We are all more than happy to have Karl back on board, he is an integral part of what we want to achieve at Haven.”

The good news continued over into Thursday morning as it was announced that winger Andrew Bulman had signed on until 2024.

Coach Gorley said: “It's great to have Andrew back on board with us, this time for two years.  He's an exciting winger who knows where the try line is and as he has proved this season, he does a great job for us coming out of yardage with the pace and power has got. Andrew is still only young and can only improve, he has got a great future in the game and is a valued and integral member of our squad.”