WHITEHAVEN have promised to show Nathan Lucock the love after the hooker made a sensational switch from Workington.

The youngster failed to get much game time during his two-year stint with fierce rivals Town.

That won’t happen at The Recre, according to general manager Amanda Hewer, who said: “It’s our job to help Nathan fall back in love with rugby league.

“He’s an outstanding prospect. Someone we want to grow and develop as a player with us.

“It’s a great signing for us – the first of five in the next few weeks – and a lot of credit has to go to James Robinson, who has been working hard behind the scenes to get deals in place.”

Lucock, a former Glasson Rangers amateur, has an impressive record, having starred for Barla at under-17 and under-19 level.

He has also represented England’s Community Lions.

Hewer said Haven were aiming to build a squad around a young, local team, and added: “Nathan is exactly the type of player that we are looking to bring in.

“We are trying to help the local game by offering top talent the chance to play in the Championship.

“We want to help Nathan. We will show him the love.”

Lucock signed for Town ahead of the 2014 season, and made his debut in a losing effort against Whitehaven for the Ike Southward Memorial Trophy.

He also impressed during a friendly with then Super League champions Wigan Warriors, earning coach Paul Crarey to declare: “He’s a great hooker”.

Lucock’s first try came in a 32-24 league triumph over Swinton Lions in July 2014, and a month later, he was offered a new deal at the Zebra Claims Stadium

Injuries thwarted the start of his 2015 season, with nose and neck issues, and Lucock found himself on the bench for most matches.