Last updated at 11:42, Friday, 28 December 2012

Powerhouse prop Jamie Acton revealed he opted to join Workington Town because he loves their all-action style.

ready for action: Jamie Acton prepares for 2013 season

Town’s pack proved as strong and aggressive as any in the third tier last term, and the former Wigan Warriors junior who doubles as a cage fighter, noted their power when he turned out against them for Oldham.

So when he got the chance to switch to Derwent Park for 2013, despite offers from other clubs, he was happy to sign.

“I enjoyed playing against Workington last year,” said the 18-stone youngster. “It was all played rough and intense, and that’s my style. I get stuck in.”

Still only 20, the London-born prospect is relatively new to rugby league and is ready to continue to learn his trade from Town’s more experienced front-rowers.

“To enjoy the rugby is the priority,” added Acton. “It’s a tough year, with the reserve competition scrapped for Super League clubs. There’s a platform for a lot of young players in the Championship, and I want to make the most of the opportunity.

“We have some fantastic props like Jamie Thackray and Ewan Dowes, who have already helped me in training, and that will be massive in my progression in rugby.”

Acton is from a rugby union background and turned to league with Hemel Stags to keep fit over the summer a few years ago.

“I ended up playing for England and Great Britain, and then got signed for Wigan after playing against Australia,” he said.

“I’ve been playing rugby league for only three or four years.

“Both games have massive positives, and my personal style suits rugby league better. I like the aggression and fast-flowing action. “

He has no plans to shelve his cage fighting, though he is focusing largely on wrestling at present, sharpening his skills alongside England’s Commonwealth Games squad in Bolton.

And he plans to show his new Town team-mates a few wrestling techniques that may be of use in rugby league.

Workington moved for Acton after he impressed against them for Oldham, and coach Gary Charlton likes what he has seen so far from the youngster.

“He is big, athletic and strong, and he has fitted in well. I think we have a decent player,” Charlton said.

l Town flyer: £10,000 2012 winner: Mr A R Smith, Workington.

Monday, JM Cowling, Workington, A8926; Tuesday, Mrs J Lacey, Frizington, C7799; Wednesday, Mrs S Harris, Maryport, B3570; yesterday, Mrs M Vickers, Cockermouth, B9435; today, Mr S Ferguson, Cheshire, B7193.

First published at 11:24, Friday, 28 December 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk