12 January 2024 News
HRH The Prince of Wales has surprised MND Association patrons Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield by presenting them with their CBEs during a visit to Headingley Stadium in Leeds.
Rob and Kevin, who were made CBEs in the New Year Honours List for services to motor neurone disease (MND) awareness less than two weeks ago, were recognised by Prince William on 11 January for their “phenomenal” efforts in raising funds and awareness for MND.
Watching on proudly were Rob’s wife Lindsey, his three children Macy, Maya and Jackson, and Kevin’s wife Jayne.
When talking to Rob and Kevin in the dressing room of their former club, Prince William said:
“I’ve brought a special couple of things up with me to give you today. I did check with Kevin to make sure you didn’t want to go down to London to receive this, but I brought your CBEs up here to give to you today if that’s okay, while you’re in your home town, in Leeds, surrounded by your family and friends. I thought today was a good day.
“The most amount of thank yous and congratulations for all the inspirational work you’ve done Rob, you’ve been amazing and everyone’s so proud of you.
“We’ve been following your case and all the money you’ve been raising, and you’re changing people’s lives with MND.”
After receiving his CBE, Rob said:
“It is an honour to accept on behalf of the whole MND community. Days like today allow us to keep the spotlight on the disease and continue to raise awareness and, hopefully, funds to fight the disease and support those who are living with MND and their families.
“It was wonderful that His Royal Highness was able to come to Headingley to see us and very much appreciated. It was lovely to talk to him and for me to meet my family.”
The Leeds Rhinos legends have worked tirelessly since Rob’s diagnosis with MND in December 2019 to raise money and awareness for the MND community, including the MND Association. With these funds, the Association has been able to improve support for people affected by MND, particularly for children and young people, and fund more research than ever to take us closer to effective treatments and a cure.
“We’re truly delighted that Association patrons Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield have been presented their thoroughly deserved CBEs by HRH The Prince of Wales. It is astounding how much Rob, Kevin and their families and friends have achieved since Rob's own diagnosis with the disease, raising awareness and vital funds for motor neurone disease (MND). It is so poignant that such a special moment should happen in such a special place for both Rob and Kevin.”