Widnes extension for Pickersgill

Steve Pickersgill has become the second front-rower in 24 hours to commit his future to Widnes.

Pickersgill, 26, is one of the club’s longest serving players, having joined from Warrington, initially on loan, in May 2009, before signing a three-year deal at the end of that season.

He said: “Obviously I’m over the moon! My current deal at the club was coming to an end and this is something which is always in the back of your mind, no matter how hard you try to forget about it.

“Signing this one-year extension is a big weight off my shoulders and has given me even more motivation to finish this season strongly, before focussing my intentions on improving even more in 2013.

He has made 15 appearances for Widnes in their first season back in the top flight, taking his total club appearances up to 60.

Vikings head coach Denis Betts said: “I am really pleased to reward Steve with an extra year which will offer him an ideal opportunity to build on the hard work he has already put in, and take his career forward. He is in fine form at the moment but fully realises exactly how far he still has to go. He now has the opportunity to push on and establish himself as a first team player in Super League.”

Pickersgill’s new deal follows on from the news that front-row partner Ben Cross has also agreed a one-year contract extension at the Stobart Stadium.