WIDNES Vikings chiefs have spoken of how Kevin Brown's departure to Warrington Wolves unfolded.

A statement said that Vikings received an unsolicited approach from Warrington Wolves with regard to signing their stand-off and skipper.

"The club believed that Kevin had earned the right through his outstanding contribution to our evolution both on and off the field to decide how we proceeded with the approach from Warrington," continued the statement.

"The club sought Kevin’s instruction and he confirmed that he would like the club to proceed with negotiations to allow him to take up a contract with Warrington Wolves for the 2017 season.

"Having received that instruction, negotiations were concluded to facilitate the move.

"Widnes Vikings can therefore confirm that an undisclosed transfer fee has been paid and Kevin Brown has been released from his contract with immediate effect to enable him to join Warrington Wolves."

Vikings chief executive James Rule commented: “This is not a situation we initiated or indeed could have anticipated at this stage in the off season.

"However Kevin has been an outstanding player, leader and ambassador for our club over the past four years and we felt it was right to respect his wishes once he had confirmed he would like to take up a contract with Warrington Wolves.

"We can now look forward to being in a position where we can explore the available players that can enhance our team in the 2017 season.

"On behalf of myself, the directors, coaches, staff, members, players and sponsors of Widnes Vikings, I would like to thank Kevin for his outstanding contribution to the club and wish him and his family the very best of luck for the future."

He added: "This transfer had a number of moving parts and it was impossible to make any comment without risking undermining Kevin should the transfer have fallen through.

"The transfer was only finalised and signed off today (9th December) following Kevin’s completion of a medical with the Warrington staff. We are therefore communicating the news at the earliest possible opportunity.”

Denis Betts has moved quickly to name Warringtonian Joe Mellor as Vikings' number 6 for the 2017 Betfred Super League campaign, with Tom Gilmore being promoted to the number 7 jersey from 21.

Widnes have assured all their members and supporters who have purchased personalised 2017 home jerseys with the name Brown (Number 6), Mellor (Number 7) or Gilmore (Number 21) that they can be exchanged for a replacement garment.