Family’s heartbreaking tribute to ‘inspirational’ rugby league legend Rob Burrow

The family of Rob Burrow have paid an emotional tribute to the rugby league legend following his death after a four and half year battle with motor neurone disease.

Burrow's death was confirmed by his family and his former club Leeds Rhinos, in a touching statement released today (June 2) which refers to the late 41-year-old as a ‘true inspiration’.

Their statement reads: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved son, husband, father, brother and friend.

"Rob has always been a true inspiration throughout his life whether that was on the rugby league field or during his battle with MND (motor neurone disease). He never allowed others to define what he could achieve and believed in his own ability to do more.

READ MORE: Tributes paid to rugby league and MND fundraising hero Rob Burrow who has died

"The outpouring of love and support that Rob and the whole Burrow family have received over the last four and a half years meant so much to Rob.

"In particular, the rugby league family and MND community have rallied around Rob to inspire him, thank you for your support. For those who knew Rob throughout his life, his determination and spirit in the face of MND over the last four and a half years came as no surprise.

"Rob never accepted that he couldn't do something. He just found his way of doing it better than anyone else. He will continue to inspire us all every day. In a world full of adversity. We must dare to dream.”

Tributes have poured in for Burrow since his death was announced.

Paying tribute on social media, the Prince of Wales, who awarded CBEs to both Burrow and Sinfield for services to MND awareness in January, wrote: "A legend of Rugby League, Rob Burrow had a huge heart. He taught us,