TWO leading amateur rugby league clubs will unite to raise funds to support the parents of a baby boy who has been diagnosed with leukaemia.

Pilkington Recs and Thatto Heath will stage a double header between their open age teams at Close Street this Saturday, with fixtures kicking off at 12.30pm and 2.15pm.

They are supporting nine-month-old Isaac Haggerty, son of former Super League player and ex Recs coach Gareth Haggerty and his wife Claire. 

Isaac was diagnosed with a rare form of leukaemia earlier this year. His parents say he is their "little warrior".

Gareth, whose brother Kurt coaches Recs, is the son of former Saints forward Roy.

A series of fundraising events to support Gareth and Claire have been taking place, with more planned for the coming weeks.

Online donations have already amassed more than £3,500.

Mandy Burgess, a family friend, who set up a fundraising page on the Gofundme website, wrote: "On the 4th January Isaac James Haggerty son of Gareth and Claire Haggerty was diagnosed with Leukaemia. 

"Gareth and Claire are good friends too many and we are trying to raise funds to help support them through this difficult time.

"They are currently living at Alder Hey oncology ward and will unfortunately be there a lot over the coming months while Isaac gets better.

"The recovery road is going to be long and I know as a close friend of theirs they are completely overwhelmed and forever grateful for your support."

Thatto Heath, who will be raising money via a £2 entrance fee, raffles and auctions, have urged the rugby league family to turn out in force.