Cumbrian rugby league star Shaun Lunt has announced his retirement from the sport.

In a post on his Twitter account, Cockermouth-born Lunt said: "Well rugby league it’s been emotional... our time has come to an end unfortunately.

"I’ve been very fortunate through hard work and dedication to have a career I could’ve only of dreamt of as a kid.

"Met some sensational people along way also... on to the next chapter now."

Barrow Raiders, who Lunt had signed to play for in 2021, tweeted: "The change of shift pattern in his new job meant that he was unable to commit to the training demands of the club

"We decided to part company on the best of terms with enough time to bring in a replacement.

"As one door closes another opens and this is a tremendous opportunity for our trialist, Harry Swarbrick, to stake a claim for a permanent position in the squad. Harry has been looking very sharp in training and has been eyeing the hooker's jersey.

"Training is going really well, there is a real buzz in the camp and this will not derail our promotion bid.

"All the best for the future Shaun and congratulations on a fantastic career."

Lunt started his career with Castleford Tigers but made his name at Workington Town and went on to play for Huddersfield Giants, Leeds Rhinos, Hull KR and Batley Bulldogs.

Town tweeted: "Congratulations on a fantastic career marra and thank you for your time in the blue and white of Town."