Keighley Cougars have accepted a request from Josh Lynam to be released from his contract with immediate effect due to increased work and family commitments away from the sport.

The 32-year-old arrived at the club ahead of the 2013 season, going on to make 159 appearances for Cougars, scoring 45 tries.

Josh said “Due to my work away from rugby and my new daughter, I am unable to commit to the amount of training required to be fighting out of our tough spot in League One.”

“I can’t speak highly enough of my experience at the club, from when I arrived, dealing with injuries and how they’ve handled my situation and contract termination.

“I’d like to thank the staff, players and supporters and wish the club nothing but the best.”

Keighley boss Alan Kilshaw said: “I have enjoyed working with Josh in the short time we’ve had together and I know this was a difficult decision for him to make. It’s understandable that Josh is struggling to balance work and family life. It’s important for part-time players to be happy in their personal lives and I respect Josh’s decision.”