Prince William has given a massive boost to the Daily Star’s campaign to award Kevin Sinfield a knighthood, after he raised thousands of pounds for motor neurone disease research
Prince William has shared a message to “inspiring” marathon runner Kevin Sinfield, who is running seven ultra-marathons in seven days to raise money for motor neurone disease research. The Royal’s words of support come as sporting legend Sinfield has smashed his £777,777 target to honour his late Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow.
In a heart-warming message to Sinfield, Prince William wrote: “Kevin, huge congratulations on nearing the finish of your incredible 7 in 7 challenge! Your commitment to Rob and everyone affected by MND is truly inspiring. Thank you for shining a light on the need for research and support, and for the hope and example you bring. Look after those knees! W.”
The Royal’s words are also a huge boost for us here at the Daily Star – as we’re campaigning to get Kevin a much-deserved knighthood for his incredible efforts.
Earlier this week the donation tally soared to £813,000. England rugby union head coach Steve Borthwick, 46, who accompanied Kevin during his fifth trek across Cumbria yesterday (December 5), praised him as an ‘inspiration’ who ‘brings everybody with him’.
“What Kev and his team and everybody is doing to make the MND community feel loved and cared for,” he added.
Kevin, 45, who has confessed ‘some bits aren’t moving like they should’ owing to his relentless schedule, faces two more mammoth marathons.
He will traverse Scotland on today (December 6) before an emotionally-charged final stretch in Leeds on Sunday (December 7).
Kevin and mate Rob Burrow – who passed away last year following a five-year fight with the illness – were Leeds Rhinos teammates. It is where the memorable photograph of Kevin carrying his friend across the 2023 Leeds Marathon finish line was captured.
Before embarking on his marathon of marathons, Kevin acknowledged an ‘immense challenge’ awaited him. “We know it’s going to be tough,” he said.
“But it’s nothing compared with the challenges people with MND, their families and carers face every day.
“Every mile along the way is for them to show them love and support and to raise funds to ensure they continue to get the care they need while research into new treatments continues. We know times are really hard for many just now but any money you can spare will go to the right place.
“Every smile, cheer and kind word makes a huge difference to all of us.”
Should he pull it off, it’ll mark the sixth occasion he’s tackled seven gruelling ultra marathons within a week, helping to generate over £11 million towards finding an MND cure.
Kevin has vowed to take on the challenge once more next year for a seventh attempt – mirroring the number Rob sported on his jerseys – and to keep fundraising for the cause throughout his lifetime.
To support him, Daily Star has launched a campaign, calling for his selfless charity work to earn him a knighthood. Since then, close to 50,000 Britons have backed an online petition backing the campaign.
Darts sensation Luke Littler, 18, a devoted rugby league supporter, has thrown his weight behind the honour after contributing thousands from his prize money to the charity. Rob’s widow Lindsey, 42, is also convinced Kevin’s dedication merits one of Britain’s highest accolades.
Find more information on Kevin’s 7 in 7 Challenge here, and find information on how to contribute here.
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.