ahead of the 2027 Championship campaign.

The 27-year-old becomes Oldham’s first announced new signing for next season after spending the past two years with Sheffield Eagles, where he made 44 appearances.

Butterworth is delighted to have secured a move to Boundary Park and is looking forward to becoming part of a Roughyeds side aiming to take another step forward next season.

“Oldham are a top Championship team and that’s where I want to be playing rugby,” he said.

"It’s a really good set-up here. I’ve never played at somewhere as good as Boundary Park and I’m looking forward to it.

"I like to run from dummy-half if it is quick, and I do like a kick now and again if it is on.

"I bring loads of energy and enthusiasm and hopefully I can help the team go another step further next year.”

Having progressed through the Bradford Bulls academy system, Butterworth earned a move to Huddersfield, where he gained his first taste of top-flight rugby.

His move to Dewsbury ahead of the 2021 season proved particularly successful, with his three-year stint at the club culminating in him being named League One Player of the Year during the Rams’ title-winning campaign.

His performances earned him an opportunity with Super League side Hull KR before he moved on to Sheffield, where he has continued to establish himself as one of the Championship’s most consistent hookers.

Roughyeds boss Alan Kilshaw believes Butterworth’s experience made him an attractive addition to the squad.

“I’m really pleased we have been able to secure Reiss on a long-term deal,” said Kilshaw.

"We made this signing very early in the year when we were aware of the Super League interest in Cole, and when I was made aware of Reiss’ availability, the club moved quickly to secure him for 2027 and 2028.

"He’s a real competitor and has been one of the most consistent number nines in the Championship over the last few seasons.

"He has also played in and been around Super League environments, so I’m expecting him to thrive in our environment next season, sharing the hooking duties with Matty Wildie.

"We all saw his qualities when we played Sheffield at Boundary Park a few weeks ago. He set up a couple of tries, kicked a 40/20 and was a real handful for us.

"I’m really happy he’ll be wearing Oldham colours now rather than playing against us.”