MIKE Emmett has left Keighley Cougars to join one of their rivals.

The loose forward, 31, has signed for fellow Betfred League One club Hunslet on a 12-month contract.

Emmett joined Cougars from York City Knights in October 2016.

Prior to his spell at Bootham Crescent, Emmett spent four years with Doncaster RL, helping the club to promotion from League One in 2012 and a shock fourth-place finish in the Championship in 2014.

He was an ever present for the Cougars during the 2018 Betfred League One campaign making 26 appearances for the Keighley club scoring two tries.

Emmett said: "I’m really excited about next year at Hunslet, our aim is to get the club promoted and that’s a challenge I am relishing.

“It was easy decision to sign for Hunslet after speaking to Gary, it’s clear where he wants to take the club and I can’t wait to get started.

“I’m really looking forward to playing in front of the passionate fans we have here, they are very vocal and always make themselves heard.

“These are exciting times for the club, Gary and Darren have worked hard to keep the guys who are staying and attract some real quality to the squad.”

Gary Thornton, Hunslet head coach, said: “Mike has lots of experience in league 1 and is a tough robust forward and has been in some very good teams during that time.

“I’ve worked with Mike before and he’s the sort of player you want in your camp and not in the oppositions.

“He’s tough and has good skills and I’m hoping he can add those qualities to our group, he is another great addition to the squad.”