Chairman highlights Kevin's incredible efforts for MND Association

12 December 2024

One of the highlights of December for me was visiting the Northampton headquarters of the MND Association to wish Kevin Sinfield all the best on his incredible Running Home for Christmas Challenge.

Kevin, an England rugby union coach and former professional rugby league player for Leeds Rhinos, England and Great Britain, was setting off from MND’s HQ on a 55km route which would take him all the way to the Welford Road Stadium in Leicester.

That’s quite a feat in itself, but is especially impressive when you consider the run was Kevin’s sixth ultra-marathon in as many days. His seventh the following day saw him complete his 7 in 7 challenge to raise money for the MND Association. This incredible challenge was completed by Kevin in memory of his good friend and former teammate Rob Burrow, who died from the disease in June.

As well as offering an opportunity wish Kevin well, the event on December 6 also a great chance for me to speak to staff from this amazing charity, as well as people with motor neurone disease. The MND Association focuses on improving access to care, research and campaigning for those people living with or affected by MND in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and you can find out more about them on their website.

I was also invited by Parish Chairman Keith Simmons to unveil the honours board at Eydon Village. 

It was a privilege to be asked to present the awards to three recipients, highlighting the importance of community and the unsung people who give time and effort to become involved in village life. 

It was great to see a community come together to recognise outstanding service within Eydon Parish.

Other activities I attended this month included:

• The Lighthouse Club East Midlands Christmas lunch, an annual event to raise money for the charity, which supports construction workers.
• The Daventry Mayor’s Charity Party, raising money for Cllr Tweedale’s chosen causes, Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service, and Service Six.
• A carol service held as part of the St John’s Ambulance Christmas celebrations.

Thank you for taking the time to read my December update. Please remember you can find out more about the Chairman's role, my chosen charities for this year, and information about how to invite me to your function or event on the Chairman's page

Cllr Jo Gilford
Chairman of the Council