THREE budding rugby stars have signed to play for a Super League club.

The three boys, who played for Dalton ARLFC under 16's have signed for Salford Red Devils. 

The three players were spotted to play for the Red Devils by ex-Great Britain international John Fieldhouse.

Joshua Blinkthorn played hooker of Chetwynde School, Sam Atkinson played loose forward and Dan Knott played wing both at Dowdales School.

All three lads have been the 'backbone of the success' of the Dalton side, who went unbeaten in the league last season, winning the league in the North-West Counties League. 

Joshua, aged 15, a skilful halfback, has been playing rugby league since he was six, having played for Millom RLFC for most of this time, but moved to Ulverston last year to the benefit of Dalton.

Sam, 16, is a strong running loose forward again playing from a young age for Dalton, and was club captain for his side. 

Speedy Dan Knott, also 16, can play full back, centre or wing, and scored a memorable 60-metre try against Wigan in the scholar's first game for the Red Devils. 

David Blinkhorn said: "It’s great that local talent in Cumbria is finally being seen by super league clubs, there is a hotbed of talent in Cumbria and I am sure this is just the start for these three talented lads.

"It will be interesting to see where their career path takes them in the game.

"Let’s hope more young lads follow their path and get the chances they deserve in what I think is the greatest sport of all time."