HALF-BACK Matty Firth is the latest signing for Steve Deakin's growing Cougar Squad.

With a team based on youth due to set the Northern Ford Premiership alight when the season starts on December 2, he has clinched the 19-year-old's signature ahead of other teams who were queueing up to secure his services.

"I am delighted to have signed Matt, he brings more youth into the side, but also has a considerable amount of experience. He played eight Super League games for Halifax last season.

"We have beaten off competition from two or three other clubs -- and I'm delighted with that," Deakin said.

The signing of the Wakefield-born player adds to new captain Danny Fearon who also brings Super League experience to the team. Cougar stalwart Phil Stephenson is rewarded for his commitment to the club by being named vice-captain of the team.

Jason Ramshaw is due to start his duties back at Cougar park running the community programme after a deal was secured with Harrison & Clough.

"The support we are getting from the community and local businesses is fantastic. We have sorted out the misunderstanding with the Cougar Lottery, and now things really are forging ahead," said chairman Neil Spencer.

The club is gearing up for the launch of season tickets which will go on sale on November 9. Season ticket holders will be issued with a personal pass and should take a passport-style photograph with them, the cost of a season ticket is £96.

The standard adult ticket price for the season will be £8 and £4 for OAPs withy Under-15s costing just £2 per game.

A met the players night is also being planned for November 9, with an evening session taking place from 7.30.

"There has been a lot of hard work put in over a very short period of time, but everything seems to be coming together. We have had some very generous support already, but i would particularly like to hear from anyone prepared to sponsor a car for Jason to run the community programme. It is one of the prestige sections of the club and really deserves support," Neil said.

Company corporate sponsorship packages were also being launched this week with details available in a special promotional pack which is available from the ground on 01535-213111.

"The function rooms are also available for corporate entertaining, meetings and conferences throughout the week and anyone interested in seeing what is available should contact Mandy Ogden at the club," Mr Spencer said.

n A team of ground stewards is also being established and potential stewards should contact Ian Spencer at the club.