The traditional Ike Southward Memorial Trophy has been arranged for Sunday, January 19.

Holders Workington Town will defend the Trophy at the Recreation Ground against a Whitehaven side who will be completing their pre-season preparations.

Haven are hoping to begin their build-up on January 5 against North Wales Crusaders, who have won on their last two visits to the Recreation Ground.

That warm-up game still has to be confirmed but they have agreed to travel to play Newcastle Thunder on January 11.

Chairman Tom Todd said: “It’s always an eagerly-awaited fixture, one of the most popular we have.

"It’s an opportunity to test local rivalries on the eve of the season.

“Workington will come to us as holders and I’m sure our lads will be desperately keen to get the prestigious trophy back.

"It would look good on show alongside the League 1 trophy.

"Ike was a true great among West Cumbrian rugby league enthusiasts, as well as further afield, and it’s terrific that we play a match each year in his memory.”

That was a theme taken up by his opposite number, Town chairman Les Smallwood.

He said: “We always look forward to the Ike Southward Memorial game every year and it’s a key part of our season’s build-up.

“It celebrates a Town and rugby league legend, and his fantastic family who are still regular supporters and sponsors of Workington Town.

"We’re very proud to have the Southward family woven into the fabric of our great club.

“In our 75th year of existence, we hope to do Ike proud and retain his magnificent trophy.”

Town are still working on their pre-season games and this is the first one to be confirmed.

Haven return to training tomorrow, while Town resume this Saturday.