WIDNES Viking players are encouraging Halton residents to help to save lives.

As the biggest rugby tournament in the world gets underway, they are urging people to be a hero for their country and ‘bleed for England’.

They have teamed up with NHS Blood and Transplant and Red Driving School to back a new lifesaving drive.

Rugby players launched the campaign by cramming inside a driving school Vauxhall corsa on the Select Stadium pitch.

Richard Munson, community integrated director at Widnes Vikings, said: “As a professional sports club we feel we can help raise awareness amongst our fan base of the importance of giving blood.

“We are delighted to be working with NHS Blood and Transplant on some unique Vikings initiatives.

“Giving blood is an incredibly important cause which saves lives.

“Our players have teamed up with Red Driving School for a unique, fun challenge.”

Recent statistics revealed that although a large proportion of people support England during world sporting events, less than three per cent have given blood in the last year.

It is hoped that 100,000 new people will sign up as blood donors before the end of the rugby world tournament.

Ian McIntosh, chief executive officer of Red Driving School, said: “We never know what lies around the corner in life and when we might need the help of someone else.

“This is why we are encouraging our learners and instructors to register as donors.

“Your blood could help people who have sustained life-threatening injuries.”

Jon Latham, assistant director at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “It’s great to have the support of partners like Red Driving School and Widnes Vikings for this campaign.

“Giving blood is an amazing thing to do.”

For more information, visit blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 2323.