Leigh sign PNG star

Leigh Centurions have announced the capture of Papua New Guinea star John Wilshere.

Wilshere - who spent last season at Warrington Wolves - has signed a 12 month deal with Super League?s newest club. The twenty-five year old has played eight Test matches for PNG and can operate at either full back, centre or wing.

He has top-line NRL experience with St George-Illawarra, Penrith and Melbourne Storm and is also an experienced goal kicker who will provide cover for Neil Turley. Centurions Head Coach Darren Abram believes Wilshere will bring a great deal to Leigh?s Super League challenge: "John is a big strong running player who has gained experienced in Super League and the NRL.

"He had an unfortunate time at Warrington but has the opportunity with Leigh Centurions to show why he is an international player. John will bring size, speed and agility to the backs, plus he is a natural try scoring player as well". John Wilshere also expressed his delighte with the move, adding: "I am very pleased to sign for Leigh Centurions.

"I have not been able to fully show my ability due to injury, however, I am now fully fit and cannot wait to pull a shirt on and get playing for Leigh and put last seasons frustrations behind me".

Meanwhile the Centurions build-up to their debut season in Super League has received a further boost by the signing of a five figure sponsorship deal with Europe's largest wrought iron manufacturer 'House of Sharrat'.

Now better known for their extensive range of both modern and traditional furniture and giftware, the company, which is in Leigh have signed a record twelve month deal with an option for 2006.

Leigh's Executive Director Derek Beaumont commented: ?This is a significant day in the history of Leigh Centurions.

"We have signed a record deal with a local company who have a reputation for success in the UK and Europe. We are delighted to have ?House of Sharratt? as our principle sponsor for our inaugural Super League season and look forward to developing our partnership to the benefit of both parties.?

Managing Director Keith Sharratt commented, ?We are delighted to back the Centurions for Super League X. The club has made immense strides over the last two years and we feel that the time is right to join the success story at Leigh. I think both parties will benefit from working with each other and our professionalism and desire for success will no doubt be a winner with the club'.

The sponsorship deal will see the company name positioned on the front of the Centurions pro and replica kit for the Super League X campaign.