IN-FORM loose forward Rob Lee has rejoined York Wasps after regaining fitness and confidence with amateurs York Acorn.

The former Hull FC and Castleford Alliance star has played a leading role in Acorn's bid for promotion in the National Conference League this season, but has now agreed to make the short switch to Huntington Stadium.

Wasps chief executive Ann Garvey said: "We think he's an excellent player. He did extremely well for Hull and played four times for Castleford last year and earned rave reviews."

The 22-year-old, who can also play in the centre, first signed for Wasps in Dean Robinson's time as coach two seasons ago, but did not enjoy the best of times.

He broke his ribs just nine minutes into his debut and became unsettled at the club midway through the campaign, returning to Hull FC after just ten appearances in which he scored four tries.

Garvey added: "He's a local lad, which is good, and he is the kind of person you would want in your team. We are still building the team and he is a good addition to that.

"We've been after him since July. But he had a bad motoring accident so he took up playing in the amateur game to regain his confidence.

"We have kept in touch with him and he now feels he's back to full fitness and his confidence is back. He has decided to sign for us, which we are pleased about."

Acorn, meanwhile, were magnanimous about his departure.

Spokesman Paul Lumby said: "Talented players such as Rob are always likely to attract the attentions of the pro clubs and we just have to take it on the chin and continue to unearth even more talent.

"Successful amateur clubs have had to put up with these happenings for years as it comes with the territory. All we can do is say good luck to them and keep the bandwagon rolling on.

"We feel confident that the team can overcome Rob's departure and the depth of talent we have here at Thanet Road should in time justify these sentiments."

Updated: 12:15 Thursday, December 06, 2001