Leeds Rhinos legends Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrow have again been awarded in the New Years Honours List.
However, instead of being awarded a knighthood, they have instead been given a CBE each which is one below a knighthood and sees Sinfield given an MBE, OBE and CBE.
Many will point to the about knighthoods saying that Sinfield will now have to wait years to receive a knighthood but this rule doesn’t exist.
That being said, it is observed as an unwritten rule but Sinfield and Burrow deserve to be given a knighthood sooner rather than later and despite this CBE it is time for this guidance to be ignored and the duo to receive a knighthood today and the longer you wait the more likely it is that the public will loose interest in the fight against MND.
It would be breaking the trend but these two should be getting honoured bi-yearly at the very least for all they do in the fight against this horrific illness which is criminally underfunded. If this is done, we stand a better chance of keeping MND in public consciousness and helping to find a cure sooner rather than later.
Since Burrow’s diagnosis fundraising inspired by Burrow, led by Sinfield and his four epic annual challenges, has raised over £15 million, which includes the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon in 2023 when the image of Sinfield carrying Burrow across the finish line went viral on social media around the world. Sinfield added, “I certainly was not expecting the award and this has never been about any recognition, this is about raising money and awareness for the MND community and for fighting for Rob so I feel very humbled by the whole thing.
“I think it is really special that Rob has been recognised again. The bravery and courage that Rob and his amazing family have shown as he is fighting MND is wonderful; to open the front door and to show the world what it’s like to live with it, he’s been incredible. I think the whole family have shown us all what a great family look like and they’ve been so inspirational,” added Sinfield.
Burrow added, “I am honoured to receive the CBE on behalf of the MND community. It is always pleasing to have another opportunity to bang the drum for the whole community and ensure that those living with MND are remembered, especially at this time of year.
“I would like to thank my wonderful wife Lindsey and my entire family for their support, without which I would be unable to do the campaigning work I have done for care and research to fight this terrible disease.
“I am particularly pleased that my good friend Kevin Sinfield is also receiving a CBE. I hope Kevin and I can go to the palace together in the New Year to enjoy another special occasion together again. I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and all the best for 2024,” added Burrow.
