RUGBY players have pledged to save lives through sport.

Widnes Vikings and NHS Blood and Transplant have launched 'It’s in your Blood', the first campaign of its kind in rugby league.

It aims to encourage more people to become blood donors and join the NHS Organ Donor Register.

Richard Munson, Vikings community integrated director, said: "Many people do not realise the importance of the work of NHS Blood and Transplant until they are in a position where they or a family member or close friend urgently needs a blood transfusion or a transplant.

“This campaign intends raise awareness of this vital work through presenting it to our fans and the wider rugby league family as an opportunity to pass on their love and passion for Widnes Vikings or their own club through an incredibly unique method."

The club has teamed up with Halton Clinical Commissioning Group to use the power of sport to harness new innovation.

Special events will be held to highlight obesity, men's health, cancer awareness and dementia.

Zeeshan Asghar, partnership development manager for NHS Blood and Transplant, said: "We are delighted to be working with Widnes Vikings on what we know will be a fantastic two year partnership in raising awareness of blood and organ donation.

“The many activities we have planned over the course of the partnership will benefit not only the local area but the rest of England too.”

One blood donation can help as many as three people who desperately require it.

Around 6,000 people are waiting for an organ donation.

Supporters can collect sign-up forms at the Select Security Stadium or at the Vikings superstore at Tesco Extra Widnes.