RFL President Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP joined the Leeds Rhinos legend Jamie Jones-Buchanan, an RFL Board Observer, in celebrating the life and achievement of Rob Burrow CBE at Leeds Civic Hall on Friday.
Following the moving scenes last Sunday for Rob’s private funeral, and the unforgettable night at Headingley when the Rhinos paid official tribute before their Super League game against Leigh Leopards last month, members of the Burrow family including his wife Lindsey and parents Geoff and Irene were again honoured guests for another demonstration of the love and esteem in which Rob Burrow will always be held.
Sir Lindsay, following his re-election earlier this week as Speaker of the House of Commons, was among those who paid tribute, and focused on Burrow’s on-field achievements for the Rhinos, England and Great Britain.
“I was honoured to have been invited to speak,” he said.
“It was truly lovely event in recognition of a truly great man. No Rugby League player had more respect, more recognition and more love. He was a true Rugby League legend, and an inspirational fighter against a cruel disease, who has taken our understanding of MND to a whole new level.”
The celebration was also attended by RFL Chair Simon Johnson and Chief Executive Tony Sutton.
“It was a privilege to attend,” said Johnson, who paid tribute to the speech of Jones-Buchanan – which the Rhinos have made available on their website, after the event was streamed live on YouTube.
Watch as the city of Leeds pays tribute to Rob Burrow CBE.
“Jamie’s speech was eloquent, emotional, moving and inspiring, and I would urge anyone who can to have a listen. I am so proud to have Jamie on our RFL Board. This was outstanding.”
Rugby League Commercial and the RFL announced before the start of the season that the Player of the Match in the Betfred Super League Grand Final will receive the Rob Burrow Award for the first time this October, in recognition of his courage and brilliance, the latter most famously illustrated with the spectacular try which secured the first of his two Harry Sunderland Trophies in 2011.
