Whitehaven Rugby League has announced the re-signing of Ross Ainley on a 12-month deal ahead of the 2024 Championship season.

This follows his first season as a professional in 2023.

Ainley who joined the club on trial from neighbours Kells in pre-season ahead of the 2023 campaign made 22 appearances after making his competitive debut away to Bradford Bulls in the opening round of the 2023 Championship and became a regular in the starting lineup in the latter stages of the season.

Speaking about committing to the club again for the 2024 campaign Ainley spoke saying: "It was a big step up for me coming from the National Conference League. I thought I handled it alright and overall was quite happy with it.

"The coaches have been brilliant. It was quite overwhelming at the start but towards of the end of the season I thought I found my feet quite well."