HE INSPIRED THE NATION...ROB BURROW DIES AT 41 AFTER MND BATTLE

William leads tributes to the legend of Rugby League with a huge heart'

- Giles Sheldrick

TRIBUTES have poured in for sporting giant and inspirational campaigner Rob Burrow who died after a near five-year battle with motor neurone disease.

The rugby league legend, 41, who was diagnosed with MND in 2019 just two years after retiring following a stellar career, passed away in hospital surrounded by his family.

They issued a statement saying: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved son, husband, father, brother and friend.

"Rob has always been a true inspiration throughout his life, whether that was on the rugby field or during his battle with MND."

They added: "He never allowed others to define what he could achieve and believed in his own ability to do more. The outpouring of love and support that Rob and the whole Burrow family have received over the last four and a half years meant so much to Rob.

"In particular, the rugby league family and the MND community have rallied around Rob to inspire him - thank you for your support. For those who knew Rob throughout his life, his determination and spirit in the face of MND over the last four and a half years came as no surprise.

"Rob never accepted that he couldn't do something he just found his own way of doing it better than anyone else. He will continue to inspire us all every day. In a world full of adversity, we must dare to dream."

Rob dedicated the last years of his life to trying to find a cure for his condition.

The Prince of Wales posted on social media that the former player was a "legend of Rugby League" and "had a huge heart". William added in the personal message from him and the Princess of Wales: "He taught us 'in a world full of adversity, we must dare to dream'. Catherine and I send our love to Lindsey, Jackson, Maya and Macy."

Rob was made an MBE in 2021 for his contribution to rugby league and for raising awareness of MND.