JAMIE Acton has agreed and signed a new four-year contract that will keep him at Leigh Centurions until the end of the 2021 season.

The 25-year-old forward joined the Centurions from Workington Town in September 2013 and has since become a real fans' favourite.

Leigh owner Derek Beaumont said: "Jamie is a no nonsense, hard working committed player. I have always admired his attitude and commitment on the field and off it. He has come a real long way as a player in how he has developed his skills and controlled his aggression without losing that physical edge.

"Jamie was already contracted next year and I had received lots of enquiries for him from Super League clubs including those we regard as the best in the game. Despite the fact he, as can others, could walk away after relegation he has pledged his future to me and this Club and that is a massive statement of his belief in me to take this Club to where it belongs.

"We have sorely missed Jamie on the field but his fellow players will agree with me in saying that during his time of suspension his contribution has been fully committed in every aspect.

"I believe that Jamie will play for England during the term of his contract and fulfil his real potential. I am personally pleased that he has pledged his support to myself and the fans of this club who admire him every time he pulls on a Centurions jersey"

Acton said: "I am delighted to sign this long term deal with Leigh Centurions. I am really committed to the club and to Derek and so it was a no brainer for me.

"While everyone is devastated at this moment by the relegation I am confident that under Derek's inspiring leadership from the top that we can regain our place in Super League and establish the club at the top level, which is what Derek and the people of Leigh deserve.

"I will be working extremely hard to fulfil Derek's faith and trust in me and with the fantastic coaching team and facilities we have at Leigh Centurions there is no better place to be. I would like to pass on my thanks also to the supporters for their tremendous backing of the team and also me personally. I have made many friends during my time at the club and nothing would give me more satisfaction than to reward them for the support they give me."

London born, he first played Rugby League with Hemel Stags as a 16-year-old before moving to Wigan Warriors and becoming a regular in their under-20s Academy side in 2011.

Having represented England and BARLA at under-18s level he made his senior debut as a dual registered player with South Wales in 2012 and later played for Oldham before joining Workington.

He scored four tries in 16 games for Leigh Centurions in 2017, taking his career tally for the Club to ten tries in 73 games and his career tally to 13 tries in 105 games.