Over £5,000 has been given to the Bishop of Wakefield's chosen charities after his recent Lent Appeal.

The raised money will be split between the Rugby League Benevolent Fund, Try Assist, and the Chapel for the Bunda Bible College.

The Rugby League Benevolent Fund supports players who sustained injuries whilst playing rugby. On Sunday evening, the Right Reverend Stephen Platten met with players who have benefited from the charity.

The Bishop of Wakefield said: "I am constantly amazed at the generosity of the people of our diocese in supporting the annual Lent appeal and this year is no exception."

"I am sure this donation will help bring life-long support and help to those rugby players who suffer devastating injuries on the pitch playing a game which- for many of us in this part of the country- is woven inextricably in our livelihoods" he added.

Former Wakefield MP and Trustee of the RL Benevolent Fund, David Hinchliffe said: "The response of the churches in the Wakefield Diocese through the Lent Appeal has been magnificent.

"I want to sincerely thank the congregations of the churches who have so generously contributed, and the Bishop for suggesting that the Fund should benefit from this year's appeal."

Wakefield Diocese is also supporting another fundraising initiative, this time in aid of churches.

On 14 September, people will be sponsored to visit churches and chapels by foot, bike or horse as part of the Ride + Stride fundraiser.

The event started in Suffolk in 1982 and has since raised over £30 million to support the repair of historic churches.