ANOTHER member of Thatto Heath's senior squad has joined the professional ranks with skipper Andy Lea joining Rochdale for the 2020 League 1 season.

Lea, 27, plays loose forward and has captained National Conference League side Thatto Heath for the last three years.

Captain of the Lancashire BARLA tri series in 2019, Lea toured Fiji in 2018 with BARLA Great Britain Open Age.

Lea said: "I was made up when given the offer to sign.

"I've been really enjoying my rugby the past couple of years at Thatto in the National Conference League but when the opportunity came, it felt the right time to take it.

"I can't wait to get started now."

Rochdale head coach Matt Calland added: "Andy signs for us from Thatto Heath in the NCL.

"He comes with great leadership qualities and a real winning mentality.

"He has been captain not only of his club side but also his county, along with other international representative honours.

"He has great skill levels and a real workhorse in defence."

Fellow back row Connor Dwyer joined Widnes earlier this month.