Injured Whitehaven Rugby League Captain James Newton will walk 1km a day to raise funds for RFL Benevolent Fund.

During the 23-20 win over Halifax Panthers on Sunday, September 29, Newton was walked off the pitch after a tackle.

He was later transferred to hospital where tests revealed he has fractured vertebrae and had a halo and vest fitted which he needs to wear for 6-8 weeks.

James Newton gave an update writing: “Just wanted to give everyone a quick update as messaging everyone back is impossible. I got home yesterday (Oct 4) where I will spend the next 8 weeks in my halo.

“I will go back to Newcastle on weekly basis to get x rays and see my specialist. Everything is going well and each day there will be different challenges.

“I will keep fighting guys, thanks for all the messages it’s making each day easier.”

With news of the seriousness of his injury the RFL Benevolent Fund stepped in and acted quickly to take care of hotel accommodation for James’ loved ones whilst he was in Newcastle.

The Charity visited him at his Millom home within a couple days of his discharge. This was to assess any material needs due to his injury.

In response to the help he had received Newton is wanting to raise some money to donate to the RFL Benevolent Fund.

As part of his recovery has been told he can walk a max of 1km each day so he will aim to do 1km walk everyday in his Halo to raise some money and awareness.

Xtreme Fitness owner Lee Butterworth who set up the Go Fund Me page in response to Newton’ last injury said: “James Newton has had a lot of help from the RFL benevolent fund so he’s wanting to raise some money and awareness for them.

“We have extended the gofundme page to try and get 5k so he can donate some to them too. He will be walking 1km every day for the 6 weeks he has the halo on, it’s been ok’d by the consultant as the max he can do.”

With the Whitehaven Captain being employed locally as well, Xtreme Fitness launched a Go Fund Me page to raise money to support the player during his recovery.

A spokesperson for the RFL Benevolent Fund said: “Rugby League is a tough sport. Thankfully very serious injuries are rare. However, when they do happen it is important that the game reacts quickly to support the injured player and their family.

“James’ injury to his neck is particularly distressing as the consequences could have been life changing.

“As a Charity we rely on the generosity of the Rugby League family. As a sport we are not the wealthiest but we are rich in our values.

“We appreciate James’ support and are committed to others who may need us in the future.”

To donate to the Go Fund Me page visit the website here.