Ryan Bailey has left Workington Town to join Championship outfit Leigh Centurions.

The former Leeds Rhinos prop has attracted the attention of the Centurions with strong displays for Workington, after joining them in January.

Six-times Super League champion and former Great Britain forward Bailey was eager to pursue higher level rugby and the two clubs reached an agreement.

Town chairman Garry Mounsey admitted it was a blow to lose Bailey but said the club still has a strong pack of forwards available to them.

He said: "Although we are sad to see Ryan leave we have come to an agreement with Leigh that is worthwhile for all three parties involved.

"We’d like to wish Ryan all the very best and thank him for his efforts in a Town shirt.

"We have a strong, experienced and talented set of forwards here at Workington and with players still to come in and to return from injury we are well covered."

Bailey, 34, had his best performance for Town when they toppled the previously unbeaten Bradford in the league.

And he could be set for a swift debut for Leigh, as they prepare for their Challenge Cup clash with London Broncos this weekend.

The strong-running forward said he has enjoyed his time with Town and wished them all the best for the rest of the season.

Bailey said: "I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Workington. They have a professional and ambitious set up and the board, players and fans are superb.

"The opportunity to play in the Championship was too good an opportunity to miss.

"I’d like to wish Workington all the best for this season and the future and thank them for my time at Town."

Leigh Centurions head of rugby Keiron Cunningham said: "Ryan is keen to maintain full time rugby, he lives on our doorstep and has a point to prove. He wants to finish his career on his terms on a high with a big achievement.

"He has been in six winning grand finals so knows what the big stage is all about. He has had his issues but as with everyone in life there becomes a time when we face up to that and then it can be a very powerful weapon.

"We are still actively looking to strengthen our middle unit since the loss of Patty (Peterika Vaivai, with injury) and will continue to do so.

"I am looking forward to Ryan joining us. He is a tough, aggressive and powerful human being who takes some stopping. I am sure the Leigh Centurions fans will make him very welcome."