RUGBY LEAGUE: Wigan Warriors have signed 18-year-old stand off Mark Flanagan from the Bradford Bulls.

Flanagan joined the club on Wednesday and has linked up with the rest of the squad on the pre-season trip to Lanzarote.

Flanagan is an England Academy international and figured recently in the matches against the Australian Schoolboys.

Mark is also a useful goalkicker and signed for the Bulls from amateur club Saddleworth Rangers as a 16 year old. His father Terry played for Oldham and won four Great Britain caps between 1983 and 1984.

Speaking about the addition, Head Coach Brian Noble said, "Mark is a player I know well from his academy performances at Bradford.

"We are delighted he has agreed a two year deal with us. He is only a young man and will be looking to work his way through from our Under 21 squad."

Meanwhile, Leigh Centurions have appointed local businessman Arthur Thomas as their new chairman.

Mr Thomas, who has previously served on the boards at Wigan Warriors and St Helens, takes over from honorary chairman Andy Burnham, who stood down recently for personal reasons.

Mr Thomas, aged 63, said: "I love rugby league and have been lucky to be involved at both Wigan and St Helens at a time when they won every trophy available."