Prince of Wales leads funeral for Rob Burrow following death of rugby legend aged 41 – Island FM

Rob Burrow, the former rugby star who worked tirelessly to raise awareness of motor neurone disease (MND) after his diagnosis, has been tributed following his death at the age of 41.

Leeds Rhinos, the club where Burrow spent his entire career and won eight Super League titles, said the former player died at Pinderfield's Hospital near his home surrounded by his loving family after falling ill earlier this week.

Read more: Rob Burrow dies at the age of 41

The Prince of Wales, who awarded the former player and his teammate Kevin Sinfield the CBEs Earlier this year, he posted on X that Burrow was a “rugby league legend” and had “a big heart.”

“He taught us that in a world full of adversity, we must have the courage to dream,” he added. “Catherine and I send our love to Lindsey, Jackson, Maya and Macy.”

In their statement, the Leeds Rhinos said Burrow had “won every award as part of the club's Golden Generation”, adding: “He was a hard-working and dedicated player, his fearless performances made him one of the most respected players in the Rhinos ranks.”

The club then said: “As a tribute to the incredible work Rob has done, the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Rob Burrow Centre for MND at Seacroft Hospital on Monday will go ahead as planned, following Rob’s wishes.

“Well-wishers who wish to pay their final respects to Rob can do so in the South Stand of Rob's beloved Headingley Stadium. Gates will be open to visitors from Sunday evening.”

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called Burrow “an inspiration to everyone who has met him or heard his incredible story.”

He added: “It was an honour to spend some time with him last year. He led a fundraising campaign supporting vital new research that is improving care for others – not least through the establishment of the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds.

“He leaves behind an amazing legacy and my thoughts are with his friends and family.”

Sir Keir Starmer also said the MND activist's death was “extremely sad news”, adding: “Rob leaves an incredible legacy with his work raising awareness and advocating for people with motor neurone disease.”

“At this time, my thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Rugby union player Andy Goode also said: “Rest in peace to the legend and absolute warrior Rob Burrow. Sad news but what an absolute champion he was.”

Former football pundit Chris Kamara also said: “Rob was a real hero. He fought a real battle against MND.”

“Despite his condition, Rob raised awareness and funds so that others could benefit. His influence will last a long time. Rest in peace Rob, what a hero.”

The chief executive of Leeds Hospitals Charity, which supported Burrow, said he was “an inspiration, not just to the people of Yorkshire but to the whole nation”.

Esther Wakeman added: “Rob and his family have bravely shared their personal story with us all and shown us how to live life to the fullest even in the face of adversity.

“Even when he lacked his own voice, he gave a voice to the entire MND community, giving people hope and joy with his infectious smile and unwavering sense of humour.

“Thanks to Rob’s dedication and support, we have now raised £5.8 million to realise Rob’s dream: a specialist centre for people with MND and their families.”

(c) Sky News 2024: The Prince of Wales pays tribute to Rob Burrow following the death of the rugby legend at the age of 41