WHITEHAVEN RL captain James Newton has now returned home from hospital. 

Newton was injured during the club's last game of the season against the Halifax Panthers. 

James Newton was taken off the field towards the end of the game with an injury and was later taken to West Cumberland Hospital by ambulance. 

It was later revealed that Newton had suffered a fractured vertebra and was kept in hospital for several days following for treatment. 

He has been receiving specialist care and has had a halo fitted to support his neck and head. 

In a post on social media, James Newton said: "I got home yesterday where I will spend the next 8 weeks in my halo.

Lee Macaulay PhotographyLee Macaulay Photography (Image: Lee Macaulay Photography)

"I will go back to Newcastle on a weekly basis to get X-rays and see my specialist. Everything is going well and each day there will be different challenges.

"I will keep fighting guys, thanks for all the messages it’s making each day easier."

Local gym owner Lee Butterworth, of Xtreme Fitness, set up a fundraiser to support James whilst he recovers from the injury. 

Almost £3,000 has been raised to support James as he continues to recover. 

Whitehaven went on to win their final game of the season 23-20 at the Ortus Rec. 

Despite the win, Haven will face relegation to League 1 for the 2025 season. 

A new head coach, Anthony Murray, has now taken over under a contract for the next three seasons.