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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North Star Coffee announces opening date for new site – and they’re giving away 200 coffees to celebrate
One of Leeds' most iconic brands is expanding with two city centre openings.
Coffee lovers, you're going to love this one.
North Star Coffee Roasters are one of the early pioneers of specialty coffee in the North of England and among the UK’s first B Corp-certified coffee roasters.
They've been keeping the people of Leeds awake since 2013, and you'll find their coffee across the country as well as at their current city centre locations.
One of their brand-new locations inside the Victoria Quarter will be opening next Monday 1 June.
Their new kiosk will be located outside Jo Malone London and marks the brand’s third site in Leeds.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
To celebrate the launch, North Star will be giving away 50 free coffees a day from Tuesday 2 June until Friday 5 June - a total of 200 free drinks across the opening week. Customers will be able to claim any coffee from the menu, with one free drink per person available on a first come, first served basis, each day.
Their other new site is expected to be on Great George Street, and we'll keep you updated with any news on that one as and when we know more.
Speaking about the opening, Holly Kragiopoulos, Co-founder of North Star, said: “Opening a third site in the centre of Leeds feels incredibly special for us. Leeds has always been at the heart of North Star, so being able to bring our coffee into Victoria Quarter is a huge milestone.
"We wanted to celebrate by giving something back to the city and welcoming both loyal regulars and new customers with free coffee throughout our opening week.”
Thor’s Tipi chosen as the new operator to create a ‘distinctly Yorkshire’ Leeds Christmas Market 2026
Clementine Hall
Leeds City Council has appointed Thor's tipi as the new operator of Leeds Christmas Market 2026 on City Square.
We hate to mention the C word in May... especially in the midst of a heatwave, but just bare with us on this one.
The beloved Leeds Christmas Market will have a new operator this year, as creators of pop-up seasonal bars Thor's Tipi have been given the responsibility by Leeds City Council.
So, what's going to be different?
Thor's tipi will create a ‘distinctly Yorkshire’ retail, craft and food market which celebrates Leeds identity.
Image: Supplied
The market will feature a Yorkshire based line-up, full of popular local names and Leeds street food legends and a series of cabins will also be reserved for local craft businesses and emerging artisans.
Alongside plenty of shopping and eating options, the Christmas Market will become a full-on-festive experience for visitors. There will be winter games and karaoke huts in an Alpine Lodge, the original THOR’S tipi - complete with its signature firepit seating area, free live music from local artists, school choirs & community performances throughout the season.
There will also be a host of family-friendly events, including a ‘Leeds Night Before Christmas’ trail, family raves and free craft tables.
Image: Supplied
Amanda Monaghan, Director of THOR’S tipi, said: "This is our eleventh year in Leeds and we’re super excited to bring the most beautiful Christmas Market to City Square! We’re especially looking forward to speaking with local traders about how we can showcase their talents. Get in touch if you’d like to be involved! We’d love to have you on-board.”
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council's executive member for economy, said: "We're delighted that Leeds will be welcoming a Christmas market again this year with a new look and that visitors will once again have the chance to experience the wonders of the festive season at the heart of the city centre.”
“As always, the council is committed to working with partners and providers to bring high quality and exciting events to the city. We know Christmas is always a special time in Leeds, and this year is set to be a memorable one."
Sophie Smith -
18th May 2023 
