Wigan students support Rugby League legend Rob Burrow

Students from the Wigan Warriors Sports College will hold the fund-raising night in April to raise money for Motor Neurone Disease research, in tribute to the former England scrum-half, who revealed in December that he had been diagnosed with the disease the age of 37.

On April 4 at Whelley Labour Club, a sports evening will be held to raise vital funds in his name. The event will include raffle prizes, a DJ, food and drink and special guests from the Warriors.

In December, after revealing his diagnosis, Burrow said: “I would like to thank everyone for the support I have received already since being given my diagnosis.

“I know I have a big challenge in front of me but knowing that I have the love and support of so many people will give me inspiration and strength.

“I am very positive about the situation and intend to battle the condition as I still feel fit and well.”

Burrow won eight Super League titles with Leeds and represented England and Great Britain during a stellar playing career before becoming the club’s academy coach.

The dad-of-three played his entire career at Leeds, making 492 appearances for the club, placing him in fifth in the club’s all-time list of career appearances. He scored 196 tries for a total of 1,103 points.

He was capped 15 times by England and played five more tests for Great Britain including a Man of the Series performance in 2007 for the national side.

He is a two-time winner of the Harry Sunderland Award as man of the match in the 2007 and 2011 Grand Final.

He won the Challenge Cup in 2014 and 2015 as well as three World Club Challenges and three League Leaders Shields.

At the time of his diagnosis, Wigan Warriors’ executive director Kris Radlinski said: “Rugby league is one of the toughest sports in the world and as a player Rob was one of fiercest and bravest players to ever take to the field.

“I want him to know that he will have the full support of Wigan Warriors as he faces this challenge.”

Anyone interested in donating prizes or services to the fund-raising night can contact [email protected]