Whitehaven have announced the re-signing of competitive half-back Callum Phillips for a second season at the Recreation Ground.

A Scottish international, 26-year-old Phillips had played more than 100 games for Workington Town before joining Haven last winter.

At Whitehaven he underlined his ability as a flair player who is equally at home in the halves or hooker role, and even slotted in at full-back during the League One season.

It demonstrated his skills as a utility player, throughout the spine of the team, and officials declared themselves delighted to have him back on a one-year deal.

Looking back on his first season at Whitehaven, Phillips said: “It was tough going at times with the small squad we had and the amount of games we played.

“But we had a close group of lads and the crack was good so that carried us through.

“Even though we just missed out on the play offs it was still a good year for the club.

“[Coaches] Gary Charlton and Jonty Gorley will attract a lot of good local players to the club and both have great knowledge of rugby and how to manage a group of lads.

“So I’m confident they’ll do a great job.”

Phillips is the 11th confirmed player for Charlton’s 2019 squad and the first since the club moved out of special measures last Friday.

With that handicap now behind them the club will be looking to announce more faces over the coming weeks.

Director Mark Stamper said: “Callum is a top-quality player and a vital part of the team.

“Not only has he shown his worth on the pitch but he has also brought a lot off it.

“He has been a great help to the club since joining and everyone is delighted that he has chosen to wear the Chocolate, Blue and Gold again for another year.”