'We're so proud of you ...you've been amazing'

PRINCE William surprised rugby league legends Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield by awarding them with their CBEs during a meeting in Leeds.

- Russell Myers

The Prince of Wales travelled to Headingley, the home of Leeds Rhinos rugby league club, to hail the "amazing" efforts of the two former superstars.

Rob and Kevin were awarded CBEs in the New Year Honours list for their motor neurone disease fundraising.

The pair have raised more than £15million for charities since Rob was diagnosed with the incurable disease in 2019 aged 37.

The prince handed them their honours in their old changing room, telling them: "I have brought a special couple of things up to give you today. I did check with Kevin to make sure that you didn't want to come to London to receive these.

"But I have brought your CBEs up here today and I thought I might give them to you, if that's okay, in your home, Leeds, surrounded by your family and friends. I thought today was a good day to present your CBEs." 

William then held up Rob's honour so that he could see it, adding: "Thank you and congratulations for all the inspirational work you have done, Rob. You've been amazing, you really have.