JOE BROWN DEPARTS NEWCASTLE THUNDER

Joe Brown has called time on his Newcastle Thunder career after agreeing a permanent switch to Workington Town for the remainder of 2021.

The centre, who holds the club record for most appearances made at 234 signed up with the club this season with the intention that it would be his final one, with a spot in Jamaica’s world cup squad his ultimate aim.

Having spent the last month on loan at Derwent Park whilst looking for regular game time, Brown has opted to remain with the West Cumbrians as he targets further caps at this Autumn’s showcase tournament.

The news means Brown’s final appearance for Thunder was marked in the home fixture against Batley Bulldogs at the start of May.

Director of rugby Denis Betts said: “Joe has been a long-standing servant of the club and has contributed greatly to it over the years.

“He harbours real ambitions to be part of Jamaica’s squad at the world cup and wants to play each week to make that happen.

“He has made the wider train-on squad this week and switching to Workington will give him the best opportunity to play in his first world cup, so he leaves with our best wishes and blessing. “

Joe Brown added: “I’d like to thank all of the players, past and present, staff, fans and my family for all the support over the last 13 years at Thunder.”