Andy Wilson, Rugby League correspondent for national newspaper The Guardian, has thrown his hat into the mix for the RFL’s next major charity event – an attempt to set a world record for the most people to have ever been involved in a game of touch rugby.

The Touchathon, which will be held at Salford City College’s Eccles Sixth Form Centre on the 29th June, will raise funds for cancer charity ‘The Christie’ and is endorsed by Steve Prescott MBE.

The game will start at 8:00am and will last for 24 hours, with individuals and teams invited to chip in an hour of their time whenever they are available throughout the day.  

Wilson has thrown his support behind the event, inviting a team of media staff to join the world record attempt. Although eager to be part of a world record, the wordsmith was somewhat concerned to find that they may be taking to the field at the same time as the England Womens team.

He remarked "We're delighted to support the charity, but a bit worried about our draw. No disrespect to my colleagues, several of whom are only mildly unfit, but the last time I saw the England women playing they were slightly out of our league. Still, we'll give it a go if it helps set a record."

Although the event will feature some VIPs, rugby league fans of all ages and abilities are welcome, with a warm up pitch running demonstrations for newcomers throughout the day.

The RFL are aiming to have 1,000 people registered for the event and are hopeful that fans from all over the North West can bring some friends down to spread the game and raise money for a good cause.

To register or for more information you can visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/touchathon, or email touchathon@yahoo.co.uk.