With this in mind, the RFL have launched the "Play Touch Rugby League" initiative, opening the sport up to all: old and young, male and female, fit and not so fit.

Touch Rugby League is a fast, skillful and action-packed team sport, played in a fun and social atmosphere, without any of the tough tackling you see in a traditional game of Rugby League. So anyone can play without fear of injury.

So if you're struggling with the New Year's Resolution to get fit - if you're jaded with jogging, tired of the treadmill and bored of the barbells... why not blow off some steam with like-minded individuals instead, come and Play Touch Rugby League!

And we have been asked to help get the game off the ground in Milton Keynes!

We've got the support of MK Powerleague (Fyfield Barrow, Walnut Tree) and the use of their all-weather pitches. Sessions will take place on Tuesday evenings at Powerleague from 11th March and are open to all - please visit http://www.playtouchrugbyleague.co.uk/where_to_play/session_finder, select "London & South East", scroll down to Milton Keynes, and click "book now".

The first eight weeks (11 March - 29 April) will be informal "turn up and play" sessions - running from 7.30pm to 8.30pm, and costing £5 per person per week. These sessions will offer a great introduction to the sport, and an opportunity to get fit and make new friends.

Then, from 6th May, we'll begin a (slightly more) formal 11-week league competition - with opportunities for you to enter teams and play regularly, so if you have a work team, a bunch of mates, or you want to join the "Exiles" scratch team as an individual on the day, you'd be welcome.

Costs will be £5 per person, or £30 per team (of up to 12) per week.

To play, you'll need to register - just go to http://www.playtouchrugbyleague.co.uk/where_to_play/session_finder and find us under "London & South East". you'll see two options for MK - the "Turn Up & Play" and the "Social Mixed League" Sign up for either or - preferably - both!

Any questions, email MiltonKeynesRL@gmail.com

We'll also need Touch RL referees in MK - there's an online course you can take for £20, but once qualified you'll get a ref shirt, red/yellow cards and a whistle - PLUS you'll get paid per game you officiate, while still being a part of the social side of the sport. Visit http://www.playtouchrugbyleague.co.uk/referee