Whitehaven RLFC have confirmed the appointment of the club's first young people's champion.

Councillor Carl 'Wammo' Walmsley will be responsible for 'championing' the club to young people and assisting with its work in the community.

Chief executive officer Andrew Canavan said: "The youth of the area is the future of the club, not only as supporters and future commercial partners but hopefully as the mainstay of our playing squad.

"The role will see Wammo championing not only the club's cause to the youth in the Copeland area but also ensuring the club is there as a focal point to assist with good work in the community.

"I have known Wammo and his family for the best part of three decades and he is an amazing individual who has worked wonders for the area; particularly the Mirehouse estate, for whom he serves admirably on the town's council.

"Recently, Carl has been heavily involved in bringing down a healthy number of youngsters, not only to the LEL Arena but also to away games, and we see this role as a natural extension to this work."

Coun Walmsley will work alongside the board in his new role and is the first of a number of planned fan liaison officers.

He said: "We need to remind all these kids that not all sporting heroes are just on the TV or on social media; we have some just down the road giving it their all in our town's name.

"I've had up to 50 different kids down at the games – both home and away – during the last season and they have all made amazing memories, especially with the players at full time who come over to our corner to clap the kids, sign autographs and take photos.

"I'd like to use this role to encourage kids to fall in love with the sport and the players and for them to really look forward to matchdays.

"I will be encouraging sales of the junior season tickets and merchandise.

"I have good links with local youth clubs, schools and junior sports teams and will be looking at getting as many involved as possible.

"The club is moving forward at pace and I want to see we have the next generation of fans ready and good to go.

"The children are the long-term future of this club so I'm really excited and equally as proud that the board have trusted me with such a role."

  • The club holds its end of season awards on Friday night, with a limited number of tickets still available by calling 01946 328088 or visiting the office.