Workington Town boss Chris Thorman believes he has secured “one of the best youngsters in the county” with the signing of Ethan Bickerdike.

The Millom amateur has put pen to paper on a deal with Town after the utility back impressed on trial with the club earlier this year.

Thorman said: “He was on the dual registration agreement with his community club, Millom, last season, but I felt he showed so many good signs that we needed to tie him down on an official contract.

“I’m really excited to work with and help improve Ethan, as I genuinely believe he can be a real asset for us in the future.

“It’s another positive sign from the club in signing one of the best youngsters in the county.”

Bickerdike is the latest in a long line of impressive prospects to emerge from Millom and has represented Cumbria at under-16, under-17 and under-19 levels to earn a reputation as one of the brightest young prospects in the game.

He added: “I’m very happy to have signed my first professional contract with Workington Town.

“I really enjoyed my trial period with the club and was gutted the season came to an end.

“I believe this is the best place for my development, making the decision a no-brainer.

“I can’t wait to get back with the lads soon and fired into pre-season.”

I’d like to put on record my thanks to Millom,” chairman Les Smallwood said. “They’ve been a great club to work with and have produced many players over the last few years who have had the ability to step up to the professional game.

“We’ve pledged to work more closely with all of our local community clubs and we hope that this relationship with Millom and others prospers in the future.”