Princess Anne, who is patron of the MND Association, attended a thank you event at Leeds Rhinos’ AMT Headingley Stadium in Leeds on Wednesday to thank rugby league fans for raising over £8.2million.
Anne, who wore a bright red jacket to the event, chatted with many of the guests who had all been inspired to volunteer or fundraise for the charity by Rob and his former team-mate Kevin Sinfield CBE.
Prince William went to the Leeds stadium at the start of January to present the rugby legends with their awards for raising awareness of MND after Rob, 41, was diagnosed in December 2019.
Since his diagnosis Rob, the former captain of the Leeds Rhino has devoted his life to raising awareness and funds for those affected by the incurable, degenerative condition that affects the brain and nerves.
In his honour, Kevin has helped him raise more than £15 million for charity through a series of staggering endurance challenges such as completing seven marathons in seven days.
As a result of their remarkable efforts clubs, players, and supporters from across both rugby codes have organised and joined in a myriad of fundraising events.
Chief Executive of the MND Association, Tanya Curry, greeted Anne on arrival and introduced her to many of the specially invited guests.
She then joined them for a tour of the stadium, before sitting down for afternoon tea.
The royal, who has been helping to hold the fort while King Charles and the Princess of Wales are taking time off due to ill-health, sat next to Rob and chatted with a number of the MND fundraisers.
Ms Curry said: “So many people within the rugby community have followed Rob’s journey and his friendship with Kev, and been moved to show their support by helping us to raise awareness of this brutal disease, and donating to the MND Association.
“This event was our chance to say a heartfelt thank you to them for everything they have done. And we were delighted that The Princess Royal, who has been our Royal Patron for the last 16 years, was able to deliver that message of gratitude alongside us.”
It comes as Buckingham Palace announced on Wednesday that as President of the Royal Yachting Association, Anne will tour Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, the region’s largest RYA training centre.
She will visit the UAE on Friday where she will attend a Women in Shipping and Trading Conference panel discussion and open the new Donnelly Lines facilities at Al-Minhad Air Base.
