RUGBY LEAGUE fans are invited to celebrate the sport's 120th anniversary this summer by taking to the streets for a walk across the game's heartlands, which will finish up in St Helens.

From Sunday, July 19 to Friday, July 24, people can participate in the Founders’ Walk, a historic 120-mile journey taking in the homes of the original 22 members of the Northern Union.

Organised by Rugby League Cares, the fund-raising walk commemorates the birth of Rugby League at a historic meeting at the George Hotel in Huddersfield on August 29, 1895 when 22 clubs broke away from the Rugby Football Union.

Each day will feature defined stages to give fans and community club players of all ages and abilities the opportunity to take part and raise funds for the sport’s charity, Rugby League Cares, or their own local good cause or club.

Starting in Hull, the walk will travel west across Yorkshire before crossing the Pennines, with the route eventually ending in St Helens on July 24.

It is hoped the walkers will include sporting celebrities, current and past players, club officials and fans whose efforts will raise £120,000 for worthy causes within the ga

RFL Chief Executive Nigel Wood, who will take part in the walk, said: “The 120th anniversary of Rugby League is a very significant milestone, and the Founders Walk is a terrific opportunity to celebrate our rich history and raise money to support good causes.

“Many of the original grounds have been redeveloped over time, and some of the clubs no longer exist but the Founders Walk will be a fascinating journey into the past, as well as a celebration of our great sport, for everyone who takes part.

“The concept is fantastic - walking 120 miles to celebrate each of our 120 years - but people can walk as far as they like on each or any of the six days and I hope that everyone in Rugby League will participate, celebrate and support in whatever way they can.

“Our sport has a rich and proud history and all efforts to celebrate are welcome.”