Pictures show amazing city centre mural honouring Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow

A mural of rugby league legend Rob Burrow is set for completion in Leeds city centre later this week.
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It has been painted on the side of Leeds Beckett University's Student Union off Woodhouse Lane and depicts Burrow wearing the famous colours of Leeds Rhinos, where the former scrum-half played during his glittering career.

Burrow's courageous fight against motor neurone disease (MND) has inspired people from across the world.

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The mural, painted by northern street artist Akse, will include an inspirational quote from Burrow recognising his enormous contribution to the city.

When completed, the mural will include an inspirational quote from Burrow recognising his enormous contribution to the city (Image: LCC)When completed, the mural will include an inspirational quote from Burrow recognising his enormous contribution to the city (Image: LCC)
When completed, the mural will include an inspirational quote from Burrow recognising his enormous contribution to the city (Image: LCC)

The idea came from a collaboration between Leeds City Council, Leeds Rhinos and the BBC and the mural will feature in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year programme on December 20.

Its striking background has been created by Leeds artist Kieran Hartley of Third Eye Signs.

The council says the mural has been commissioned in recognition of Rob's fantastic playing career and his tremendous courage in tackling MND and work to raise awareness of the disease.

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The 37-year-old, who won eight Super League titles with Leeds Rhinos before retiring in 2017, revealed he had been diagnosed with MND last December.

Since his diagnosis Burrow has led several charity initiatives raising money for MND research.

In an emotional update in September, Burrow said he now making more use of a wheelchair and has experienced a significant deterioration of his voice in recent months.

Leader of Leeds City Council, Councillor Judith Blake said: "The strength and courage which Rob has and continues to show has been incredibly moving and truly inspirational to so many people. It has really helped open up conversations around overcoming adversity on so many levels, which feels so relevant this year in particular.

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"His selfless mindset, positivity and determination since being diagnosed with motor neurone disease has resonated with people not just close to home but right across the world.

"He continues to be an outstanding role model to people of all ages.

"This mural in the city centre is therefore a fitting tribute to him as a person and also marks the tremendous career that he enjoyed at the Rhinos.

"I would like to thank the BBC, Leeds Rhinos, Leeds Beckett University, the artists involved and everyone associated with this project for their fantastic support in creating this high quality piece of meaningful cultural artwork.”

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