28 February 2024 , 19:12
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Princess Anne hailed the inspirational campaigning efforts of Rob Burrow after the rugby league legend raised millions for charity.
The Princess Royal was today welcomed to the home of Leeds Rhinos, where Mr Burrow spent his entire 16-year career winning multiple trophies and personal accolades. Anne, patron of the MND Association, chatted with 80 guests who have been inspired to volunteer or fundraise for the charity by Burrow and his former team-mate Kevin Sinfield.
Former player Mr Burrow was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in December 2019 and, with his family, he has campaigned to raise awareness of the disease and to encourage support for MND charities. His story has prompted clubs, players and supporters from across both rugby codes to take part in countless fundraisers, none more so than Mr Sinfield, who has raised millions of pounds with a brutal series of endurance events.
The Princess Royal gave a speech to thank the community for their work raising money for Motor Neuron Disease (Getty Images)In January, Prince William praised the former teammates as he presented the pair with CBEs in their old changing room, telling them “We are all so proud of you”. MND Association chief executive Tanya Curry greeted the Princess Royal and introduced her to many of the specially invited guests from the rugby community which has raised £8.2 million for the charity in the last four years.
She said: "So many people within the rugby community have followed Rob's journey and his friendship with Kev, and been moved to show their support by helping us to raise awareness of this brutal disease, and donating to the MND Association.
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Princess Anne with Tanya Curry, Chief Executive of the Motor Neuron Disease Association (Getty Images)"This event was our chance to say a heartfelt thank you to them for everything they have done and we were delighted that the Princess Royal, who has been our royal patron for the last 16 years, was able to deliver that message of gratitude alongside us." Anne gave a speech thanking everyone for their efforts, along with Eleanor Dalley, from north London, who has MND.