WIDNES Vikings will partner with North Wales Crusaders for the forthcoming 2014 season.

It means that the club have ditched their link-up with Workington due to problems with the geographical distance between them.

Crusaders already train on the Widnes i Pitch and utilise the club's gym and performance centre.

Chief executive James Rule said: "Following Crusaders' promotion it felt like a natural fit to enter into this partnership. I wish to thank Workington for their support and wish them the best of luck next season. We now look forward to developing a great partnership with North Wales Crusaders."