Sunday marked the seventh day of the seventh month, and the funeral of one of the most legendary number sevens the sport has ever seen – Rob Burrow.
The man truly needs no introduction. He was an inspiration on the field as a player, and an inspiration after his career had ended during his time with MND, which he used to spread awareness of the disease.
Thousands of those people he inspired lined the streets for the funeral procession from Castleford, where he grew up, through Pontefract, where he was born, to Featherstone.
Here are seven of the most poignant photos from the day.
Seven poignant images from Rob Burrow ‘s funeral
Credit: Imago Images
His life and career touched so many people, and you can see this due to the sheer number of people lining the road that the hearse travelled down.
Credit: Imago Images
Amongst the people in attendance were people of all ages, and these young Featherstone players will be hoping to follow in his footsteps.
He, after first playing for Castleford Panthers, played for Featherstone at a junior level – he then joined Leeds Rhinos, and the rest is history.
Credit: Imago Images
Kevin Sinfield flew over from New Zealand, where he was based with England’s national rugby union team.
His dedication to his friend remains remarkable – his seven marathons in seven days showed that, and this is the latest display of love for his friend, who he played with for Leeds Rhinos for 14 years.
Credit: Imago Images
This shirt was designed by Cath Muir, who is living with MND, and who can only paint with an eye tracker.
It was worn for their MND Awareness Match against Leigh Leopards, and the number of people wearing it shows the incredible work that Rob Burrow did for MND Awareness while having the disease.
Credit: Imago Images
In this photo, you see rugby shirts with his name on, but also the words ‘BRO’ and ‘SON’ arranged from flowers in the hearse.
The other side said ‘DAD’ – a reminder of what a remarkable man he was outside of rugby league, and also that he meant so much to the people closest to him.
They got to share a special final moment with him at Pontefract Crematorium.
Credit: Imago Images
At the clubhouse at Featherstone’s Mill Pond Stadium, where he played as a boy, now lies a mural and book of condolence for the great man.
His legacy there, as well as in so many places, lives on.
Credit: Imago Images
His final words to the public – “Rob Burrow, over and out”.
Rest in peace, Rob.
