Littleborough man with motor neurone disease to walk in memory of Rob Burrow

Garry Holt (right) is doing a charity walk in memory of Rob Burrow

A sufferer of motor neurone disease (MND) is on a mission to raise funds for the friends and family of rugby league footballer Rob Burrow, who died from the same disease.

Garry Holt, 47, is planning a charity walk in honour of professional rugby player Rob Burrow, who sadly lost his battle with MND in June.

The Littleborough man says that his own struggles, going from a fit and active person to someone who struggles to walk and lives in chronic pain, have equipped him with the passion to do what he can for Rob’s family.

Inspired by the heroic efforts of Kev Sinfield, who undertook various challenges to support his friend Rob Burrow, Holt decided to follow suit. "Kev is a massive inspiration to me," Holt said. "Watching him on TV was unbelievable, so I decided to do my own challenge."

The walk, planned for early September, aims to raise funds whilst also increasing awareness about motor neurone disease. Garry told Rochdale Online News how he hopes that his efforts will inspire others and contribute to the legacy of Burrow, a beloved rugby league legend who fought the disease with unparalleled bravery.

Despite his own struggles, Holt remains humble about his efforts. "I'm no Kevin Sinfield. Kev is the greatest human being for what he has done for MND and his best friend Rob," he said. "I just want to try and do my little bit. Rob showed me you have to be brave and fight."

Holt invites the community to join him on his walk. "Anyone is welcome to walk with me. You can join the walk at any point and leave at any point. It's a celebration of Rob's life."

The charity walk promises to be a moving testament to the strength and resilience of those affected by MND, and a powerful tribute to Rob Burrow's indomitable spirit. Donations and support from the public will play a crucial role in making this event a success and in continuing the fight against MND.

Determined to honour Burrow's legacy, Garry decided that his upcoming walk would be a tribute to the rugby star's courage and dedication.

He continued: "I want to raise as much money as I possibly can. All proceeds will go to Rob's amazing wife Lindsey and their three young children. No family should have to go through what they went through."

Anyone is welcome to take part in the walk. It will begin on Sunday 1 September at 9.30am at the Branch Road layby in Littleborough.

To donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/gaz-holt