Pontefract Academies Trust pledge support for Motor Neurone Disease Association and The Prince of Wales Hospice

Pontefract born and Leeds Rhinos rugby league star Rob Burrow (pictured above at Carleton High School) was diagnosed with MND last year and has served as a key inspiration for the initiative

Pontefract born and Leeds Rhinos rugby league star Rob Burrow, was diagnosed with MND last year and has served as a key inspiration for the initiative.

MND is a fatal, rapidly progressing disease that affects the brain and spinal cord.

It attacks the nerves that control movement so muscles no longer work.

Pontefract born and Leeds Rhinos rugby league star Rob Burrow (pictured above) was diagnosed with MND last year and has served as a key inspiration for the initiative

The Prince of Wales Hospice cares for patients with life-limiting illnesses, including motor neurone disease.

Chief Executive Officer of Pontefract Academies Trust, Julian Appleyard OBE said: “Pontefract Academies Trust provides education for around 3,700 students so together we can really make a difference to these two fantastic charities.

"Rugby league legend Rob Burrow has raised an incredible amount of awareness and funds for MNDA and we want to show our support to him and his family.

“The Prince of Wales Hospice has had an impact on many of our friends and families in Pontefract and will really benefit from our support.”

Throughout the coming year, the Trust will aim to help pupils and staff gain an understanding as to what the two charities stand for, the impact of fundraising and awareness around what the charities combat - as well as raising as much money as they can.

Parents, pupils and teachers have been contributing to fundraising ideas, such as taking part in sponsored silences, walks in the countryside, wearing blue to school days and participating in the light up a life campaign by sending in videos of students singing Christmas carols.

To learn more visit The MNDA website