By Martin Morgan

Last updated 10:09, Saturday, 05 July 2008

Ged Stokes revealed he turned down a lucrative offer to coach overseas to sign a new deal with Whitehaven, pledging: “I put loyalty above anything else.”

Ged Stokes with chairman Gordon Grace

Haven gave the ex-Workington Town boss his break back in to the pro ranks in late March, handing him a deal until the end of the campaign.

And after making an impressive start to his tenure, he was happy to commit to a fresh two-year contract that ties him to the club until the end of 2010.

“I had two offers on the table, other than this one at Whitehaven, including one which had a very substantial financial package,” he said.

“But Whitehaven gave me an opportunity when I needed it, so I didn’t have to think too hard about the other offers when I got the chance here.

“It was a no-brainer. I did consider the others, but loyalty always wins out with me. I put loyalty above anything else. I’ve been loving it at Whitehaven.”

Stokes is looking to put his stamp on the club over the next two years, though he plans no major changes this season.

“It’s business as usual for the rest of this year,” he added.

“Everyone knows we have worked on a limited budget.

“But that has brought out the desire of players to play for the jersey rather than anything else.

“That has come to the fore in recent games. Players have handled the pressure extremely well, and it’s good to be involved with a group like that.

“The only motivation they’ve got is to make sure the club finishes in the top six and makes the play-offs.

“It’s really important that we maintain our place in the table and have a shot at the end of the year.”

Haven’s first-team have no game this weekend. The reserve-grade entertain Hunslet today (2.30pm).