Decision details

The Chief Executive submitted a report which celebrated and commemorated the life of Rob Burrow CBE, who sadly died on 2nd June 2024 after suffering from Motor Neurone Disease (MND) since his diagnosis in late 2019. The report highlighted how much adoration and recognition had been shown for Rob and provided Executive Board with an opportunity to reflect upon his life and his achievements.

In presenting the report, the Leader highlighted how the report set out the Council’s proposed approach to commemorating the life of Rob Burrow. It was noted that in January 2023 both Rob and Kevin Sinfield CBE had been made Honorary Freemen of the City of Leeds. This was in recognition of their contribution to Leeds in terms of their sporting achievements and also their charitable work with the MND Association and their support to the wider MND community.

It was undertaken that the Council will work with Rob’s family, Leeds Rhinos and MND charities to ensure that a fitting memorial is established for Rob.

Members echoed the comments made, highlighting how Rob transcended the world of sport and had a huge impact upon the city of Leeds and beyond. Members supported the wish to continue his legacy and commemorate and honour Rob, taking into account the wishes of his family.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That continued support be given to the celebration and commemoration of the life of Rob Burrow CBE and to his contribution to rugby league, the ongoing fight against MND and to showing the world how to live courageously and illustrating the meaning of true friendship;

(b)  That the work being undertaken to mark Rob’s life and legacy, be supported, via engagement with Leeds Rhinos and Rob Burrow CBE’s family in the most appropriate way in order to support Rob’s ambitions, which included work to build the Leeds MND Centre and finding a cure for MND.