Town announce next new signing for 2027!

Workington Town are delighted to announce that Tom Wilkinson has signed for 2027!

Workington Town are delighted to announce the signing of experienced Cumbrian forward Tom Wilkinson ahead of the 2027 season, becoming Brad Singleton's 16th signing as the squad continues to take shape.

Wilkinson brings a wealth of experience to the club, having made 114 appearances across spells with Whitehaven and Barrow Raiders before departing Barrow at the end of the 2025 season.

Following his time in the professional game, Tom returned to his community roots, taking on the role of head coach and player at Askam. Now, he is ready to make his return to the professional ranks in blue and white.

Head of Rugby Jonty Gorley has known Tom for a number of years, having first coached him as a 15-year-old at Cumbria Storm. Gorley always believed he had the attributes to make it as a professional rugby league player.

Gorley said:

"I've known Tom since I coached him as a 15-year-old at Cumbria Storm. Even at that age I knew Tom had a future in professional rugby league. He had and still has all the attributes to be a quality forward.

"I signed him at Whitehaven and tried to sign him in my first year at Town as Head Coach. Although the time wasn't right for Tom and his family then, it is now.

"I'd compare Tom to Stevie Scholey, a tough, uncompromising, skillful forward who will never take a backward step.

"Tom has played a lot of games in the Championship, so to add his experience to Brad's squad is a great quality that he will bring to the club."

Head Coach Brad Singleton is equally delighted to welcome Wilkinson to the group, highlighting the forward's team-first attitude, work ethic and reputation across both the professional and amateur game.

Singleton said:

"I'm delighted to get Tom on board. I've always been a big fan of his, going back to watching him play at Barrow.

"He's a proper team-first player who puts the team before himself, and I think the respect he's earned across both the Championship and the amateur game says everything about his character.

"Wherever Tom goes, he's appreciated, and that doesn't happen by accident. He's the type of player who sets the tone through his actions, his work rate and the standards he brings every week.

"He's exactly the sort of character I want in this group, and I'm really looking forward to working with him."

For Wilkinson, the opportunity to return to professional rugby league was one he was excited to take, and he is looking forward to pulling on the Workington Town shirt.

Tom said:

"I'm really looking forward to getting back in the pro game. I've had a year being player-coach for Askam and when I got asked to come to Workington I was excited immediately and definitely believe I have plenty to offer at the pro level.

"If we all work hard and buy into what Singo is bringing to the table, we should be able to compete well for the 2027 season.

"It's just about working hard for each other and I can't wait to put on that shirt!"

Wilkinson's arrival adds further experience and quality to the Town squad as preparations continue for the 2027 campaign.

Supporters are also encouraged to keep an eye on the club's social media channels, with the launch of 2027 season tickets and 100 Club packages coming soon.

Please join us in giving Tom a huge Townie welcome!

Welcome to Workington Town, Tom!