The inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon was held last Sunday across Leeds and saw the man himself taking part with the help of former team mate and friend Kevin Sinfield.
As well as an additional 12,500 runners — nearly 5,000 more than was initially scheduled, and all in in Rob’s honour.
And as the excitement of the day dies down, Rob Burrow has been reflecting on the day itself, and explained to the BBC that it will be probably be his last marathon.
Speaking with the BBC, the former Leeds Rhinos player said that: "The marathon was one of the best days if my life, to be a part of it was amazing."
"By the time I was finished with the run I felt like I'd been running the whole way. It really did take it out of me, but I would do it again in a heartbeat."
"I'm so happy to be involved in the first one of my marathons but I don't think I'll be in the race for the next one. I have retired."
"It was a great day and to be carried in over the final few yards [from Kev] was incredible - and how many people will be jealous of a smacker on the cheek? It just shows the love and care for me and I assure you I have the same for him".
"Of course my wife smashed it, I knew she would because she is the most determined girl I have ever met. When she gets something like this in her mind there's no stopping her, I've never been so proud of her than Sunday The amount of money raised in her name is testament to her. The money keeps going up and I'm so glad she's getting the attention she deserves.
In December 2019, former Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow was diagnosed with motor neurone disease and told he may only have a year to live, two at the most. Defying the odds, Rob has now reached his 40th Birthday.
MND is a degenerative disease that has left Leeds Rhinos legend of 16 years, Rob Burrow, paralysed and forced to communicate with his family through an eye-driven device. The condition affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord and has life-changing consequences for anyone diagnosed with the condition.
There are currently over 5,000 people in the UK living with the “brutal disease” according to the MDA Association.
Rob Burrow was diagnosed with MND in 2019. / Image: BBC
The number seven has been one of a signature trademark for the former rugby player. Rob used to play with a 7 on his back, and ever since we’ve seen it used it a range of charity events to raise money for MND charities and supporting the Burrow family.
Feature Image -Leeds Rhinos via Instagram
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UK-wide temporary ban on sale of disposable barbecues issued due to wildfire risk
A nationwide temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues has been issued.
Following the UK's fourth heatwave of the summer, and as many regions declare drought conditions, the Government has made the decision to issue a temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues due to wildfire risk.
A disposable barbecue is defined as a fuel tray or grill grid that includes charcoal fuel 'sufficient to provide cooking temperature for the duration of a single cooking episode'.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Andy Burnham described the UK as a 'tinderbox' and urged 'all retailers big and small' to withdraw the sale of disposable barbecues to prevent further wildfires, but following the shocking scenes in Stourbridge which raged overnight, it appears this has been escalated to a formal temporary ban.
The ban applies to all producers and distributors of the product - including retailers that make disposable barbecues available on the British market - and includes online sales too.
A Government statement reads: "During the current drought and heatwave conditions, the Government considers that the supply and subsequent foreseeable use of disposable barbecues poses a significant risk to the public, and the environment, and therefore cannot be considered a safe product.
"They should not be made available for supply either in store or online at the current time.
"These guidelines will be kept under review, and will be withdrawn in consultation with relevant departments and agencies, as weather conditions change sufficiently to significantly reduce the risks."
Featured Image - Dom (via Unsplash)
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A brand-new kite festival is coming to a country house in Leeds next weekend
Clementine Hall
Colourful kites will paint the sky next weekend as Lotherton Hall is gearing up for its first ever Kite Festival.
Taking place on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August, over 30 kites of all different colours, shapes and sizes will take to the sky, flown by professional fliers from all over the country.
Visitors can expect some of the world’s largest inflatable kites, and you may even spot some in the shape of your favourite character.
Not only that, but children can bring in their bravest teddies that will, weather permitting, be dropped from the sky, equipped with parachutes so they can sail down safely to their owners.
Image: Supplied
Entry to the kite festival is included in the Lotherton Hall admission, where there will also be a fun house, bumper cars and face painting as well as food stalls to keep you fuelled up for the day.
The festival is organised by The Northern Kite Group who are behind the hugely popular kite festivals in Filey, Bridlington and Redcar, so you just know we're in for a treat.
Councillor James Gibson, Leeds City Council’s executive member for environment, said: “We’re very excited to be bringing this kite festival to Lotherton for the very first time, one which I’m sure will be a brilliant day out for the whole family.
“Lotherton is one of our most loved attractions and it has so much to offer for the summer, with a full activity schedule for the school holidays as well as Wildlife World and deer park tours.”
Sarah Duncalf, secretary from Northern Kite Group said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing a kite festival to Lotherton this summer. The sight of spectacular kites filling the sky is something visitors won’t want to miss.
“From giant inflatable characters and breathtaking displays to our ever-popular teddy bear parachute drop, there will be plenty to entertain the whole family. We’re looking forward to creating a weekend full of colour, excitement and unforgettable memories, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone.”
Sophie Smith -
18th May 2023 
