By Martin Morgan

Last updated 12:20, Wednesday, 09 July 2008

Out-of-town imports could soon be history at Whitehaven, boss Ged Stokes revealed.

Haven's new head coach Ged Stokes. pic MIKE McKENZIE 2nd April 2008

The Haven squad has traditionally included star names from Lancashire who travel long distances to training, but Stokes, who last week penned a new two-year contract, wants new players who commit to the club to live locally.

“We will have to look outside the county, but hopefully that’s a situation we won’t have to maintain for a long time,” said Stokes.

“I’d like all our players living here. I know it’s a pipe-dream at times but it’s very difficult with travellers. I would like to get our new players to live here so they experience the local conditions.”

Winger Ade Adebisi moved to the Whitehaven area from his Doncaster home after joining the club this term, and he has since penned a two-year contract extension.

After agreeing his own extended deal last week, Stokes is eyeing local amateur talent he believes could switch to the Recre.

“There is a whole group of talented amateurs out there who could make the transition to professional rugby league but it takes time,” he added.

“Not many amateurs come in and make an impact straight away. We know who those players are and will target them – through the right channels, obviously.

“It’s no secret that some of our players are coming to the end of their careers. That’s been said for two or three years, and there’s some truth in it.

“But we have to make sure we don’t take away the experience factor too early. It’s important we have experienced players in and around the squad as the youngsters come through.

“We have a large squad at the moment and have to make sure we maintain quality, but also maintain the youngsters who are pushing through from the bottom.”