By Martin Morgan

Last updated 12:02, Wednesday, 03 December 2008

Workington Town have signed the first graduate of their scholarship system on professional terms, with 16-year-old Harry Kaufman joining the club on a two-year-deal.

Workington Town coach Dave Rotheram with Harry Kaufman

The former Broughton Red Rose youngster, a back-row/centre, will be left for now to feature for West Cumbria Under-18s, in the National Youth League.

“He’s done well to Under-16 level and has been at all the regional and national camps as a junior,” said coach Dave Rotheram.

“We’ve had our scholarship for a couple of years now and we have to produce our own players.

“There are some good ones there, and they now have something to aspire to. He has good ability and wants to learn and do well.

“There’s plenty for him to work with, and hopefully he’ll be a Town first-team player very soon.

“Neither Workington nor Whitehaven have an Under-18 side, and it’s the logical step for Harry to continue playing in the West Cumbria side and continue to develop there.”