Workington Town have strengthened their board by welcoming Craig "Butch" Barker as a director.

Barker has a long history with Town since he signed for the club as a player in 1993 and will bring a wealth of experience, passion and contacts.

The club hopes this season will once again see the team challenge at the top of League One under head coach Leon Pryce, and Barker is excited to be part of that effort.

He said: “I’ve been involved with Town since my teens and my passion for the club has never diminished.

"I’ve been a player, a coach and now a director.

"I’ve joined a board that is passionate and has a clear vision for where the club is going.

"It’s an exciting time to join and I’m looking forward to playing my part in the future of our great club.

"I’ve huge respect for the other directors and volunteers and want to help build on all of the hard work done over the last few years.”

Chairman Les Smallwood, who himself is a long-time director and supporter of the club, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Craig on to the board.

"Everyone is aware of his passion and commitment to the club but he’s also very well-known in west Cumbria and has many contacts inside and outside of rugby league.

"We’ve, therefore, asked Craig to help generate new sponsorship and bring new faces into the club.

"He’ll do a great job and will be a valuable asset to the board.’"

As well as putting together a competitive squad for Pryce, the club has also been working hard behind the scenes during the off-season.

A fans' forum will be held in the Gus Risman Bar at Derwent Park on Friday, December 14 at 7pm, with the opportunity to hear from Pryce, Smallwood, board members and players.