Rob inspires Oaks effort

Family members of Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow visited The Oaks to support a marathon fund-raising effort by the 2021 captains Michael Clark and Sue Randall. Inspired by Burrow’s fight against Motor Neurone Disease, rugby league fans Clark and Randall raised £5,000 for the MND Association by nominating it as their joint Captain’s Charity. Various fun events were held throughout the year, including playing 36 holes a day for seven days, culminating in the Captain’s Finale attended by Rob’s mum, sisters and cousin. Rugby fans and the public alike have watched in virtual disbelief as Rob’s former teammate and captain, Kevin Sinfield, has completed some astonishing fund-raising challenges, including a £1millon effort by running 101 miles in 24-hours. Sue Randall commented: “To have raised this amount of money has made us very proud of The Oaks Golf Club members and we can’t thank them enough for their generosity. “Motor neurone disease is a fatal, rapidly progressing disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, attacking the nerves that control movement so muscles no longer work. “It kills a third of people within a year and more than half within two years of diagnosis. “It’s a devastating disease that affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time and kills six people every day. There is no cure.” The MND Association focuses on improving access to care, research and campaigning for those people living with or affected by MND in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Denise Davies, Head of Community Fundraising at the MND Association, said: “Without the amazing support of people like Michael and Sue, the MND Association simply would not be able to provide its vital support services, fund research to find a cure and campaign and raise awareness of MND. “Together we are making a real difference for people affected by this devastating disease.” For more information about MND and the MND Association’s work visit www.mndassociation.org.

PICTURED: Left to right, Rob Burrow’s sisters Claire Burnett and Joanne Hartshorne, Michael Clark, Rob’s mum Irene Burrow, Sue Randall and Rob’s cousin Donna Bateman