Whitehaven have since released the following statement regarding the 2019 season:
Due to the continuing drop in attendances and lack of sponsorship over the last few seasons the decision has been made to further reduce the playing budget for next season. The drop in the playing budget will allow the club to re-structure including investing in a new youth setup, building a local based squad, improve ties with the local clubs and further increase the clubs community work.
After discussing this at some length with coach Carl Forster a mutual decision has been reached that will unfortunately see Carl and assistant Tony Stewart leave the club at the end of the current season. This decision has not been taken lightly by either party and the Board of Directors cannot stress enough our gratitude for the work and dedication shown by Carl and Tony during their tenure, which has seen seen some difficult times and both can hold their heads high. Carl has handled himself with the upmost professionalism at all times and we all know the love he has for the club and its fans.
The club wish Carl and Tony all the best for their futures