Rugby league legend Kevin Sinfield has been awarded a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours for his tireless fundraising efforts for motor neurone disease charities and his contributions to both codes of rugby.
The 45-year-old former England captain has raised over £10 million through six gruelling endurance challenges, all inspired by his late Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow, who passed away in 2024 after battling MND for four-and-a-half years.
Sir Kevin expressed his gratitude, saying: “I am deeply honoured and grateful to receive this award on behalf of the rugby and MND communities.”
He added: “I am particularly proud to follow in the footsteps of the great Sir Billy Boston with rugby league’s second-ever knighthood in over 130 years of the sport.”
The 45-year-old former England captain has raised over £10 million through six gruelling endurance challenges, all inspired by his late Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow, who passed away in 2024 after battling MND for four-and-a-half years.
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The newly knighted sportsman will undertake his seventh and final challenge in September, with each event themed around the number seven — Burrow’s playing shirt number.
Lindsey Burrow, Rob’s widow, offered her congratulations to Sinfield on behalf of the entire Burrow family, describing him as the most deserving recipient imaginable.
She highlighted how Sinfield’s efforts extended far beyond supporting her late husband, benefiting countless families affected by MND through his awareness campaigns and fundraising for research.
“I know he has said he is dedicated to supporting the MND community for however long it takes to find a cure, and that means so much to so many people to have a champion like Kevin in their corner,” she said.
Mrs Burrow also recalled her husband’s famous words about their friendship: “As Rob used to say, everyone should have a friend like Kevin and so many people will be pleased to see him get this recognition.”
The tribute underscored the profound bond between the two former teammates and Sinfield’s unwavering commitment to the cause.
Dame Helen Mirren has been elevated to Companion of Honour in recognition of her outstanding services to drama, joining an elite group limited to just 65 members at any given time.
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Dame Helen Mirren has been elevated to Companion of Honour in recognition of her outstanding services to drama, joining an elite group limited to just 65 members at any given time.
The 80-year-old actress won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in the 2006 film The Queen.
The Companion of Honour represents one of the most exclusive distinctions in the British honours system, reserved for those who have made exceptional contributions to the arts, science, medicine or government over an extended period.
Dame Helen’s elevation places her among a distinguished cohort of individuals whose achievements have significantly shaped British cultural life.
Chloe Kelly, whose decisive penalty secured the trophy in a tense final, was among those recognised for their contribution to the historic win.
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Six members of England’s triumphant Lionesses squad have been honoured with MBEs following their dramatic European Championship victory over Spain last summer.
Chloe Kelly, whose decisive penalty secured the trophy in a tense final, was among those recognised for their contribution to the historic win.
Thousands of supporters gathered along the Mall in July to celebrate the team’s success against the Spanish side.
Forward Michelle Agyemang, at just 20 years of age, became the youngest person named in this year’s honours list.
Fellow forwards Alessia Russo and Lauren James also received MBEs, alongside goalkeeper Hannah Hampton and defender Jess Carter.
The recognition comes as part of a list honouring nearly 1,200 individuals from across the United Kingdom.
The Lionesses’ achievement marked a watershed moment for women’s football in England, with the team’s success inspiring a new generation of players.
Forward Michelle Agyemang, at just 20 years of age, became the youngest person named in this year’s honours list.
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The co-founders of Aardman Animations, David Sproxton and Peter Lord, have both received knighthoods for their services to the creative industries and charitable endeavours.
Sir David and Sir Peter established the Academy Award-winning studio more than half a century ago, going on to create some of Britain’s most beloved animated characters.
Their creations include the cheese-loving inventor Wallace and his loyal canine companion Gromit, as well as the mischievous farmyard favourite Shaun the Sheep.
The Bristol-based studio has won multiple Oscars over the decades, cementing its reputation as one of the world’s leading animation houses.
The pair’s distinctive stop-motion animation style has influenced generations of filmmakers and brought joy to audiences worldwide.
Their knighthoods recognise not only their artistic achievements but also their philanthropic work, reflecting the honours system’s emphasis on rewarding those who combine professional excellence with community contribution.
Children’s author Julia Donaldson and novelist Malorie Blackman have both been made dames for their contributions to literature.
Dame Julia, creator of The Gruffalo, became Britain’s best-selling author last year, surpassing Harry Potter writer JK Rowling thanks to the enduring appeal of her picture books and newer characters such as Zog the dragon.
Dame Malorie, renowned for her Noughts and Crosses series, joins her fellow author in receiving one of the highest honours available for services to the written word.
Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi was awarded an MBE for his services to music and charity.
The heavy metal pioneer expressed his delight at the recognition, saying: “What an unbelievable honour to receive an MBE.”
He reflected on his career: “It’s been a privilege doing something I love and then to see that music connects with so many over the years.”
Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi was awarded an MBE for his services to music and charity.
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Beauty entrepreneur Charlotte Tilbury, who built her eponymous cosmetics empire after two decades creating looks for celebrities including Kate Moss and Kim Kardashian, was made a CBE.
Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley received an MBE for her services to drama and charity work, describing the honour as the perfect 50th birthday present ahead of her milestone celebration in July.
“To say I am humbled is an absolute understatement,” she told the Press Association.
DJ Judge Jules, also made an MBE, said the recognition felt like “a reward for my industry”, while television presenter Anneka Rice was honoured for her charity and broadcasting work through programmes like Challenge Anneka.
The oldest recipient was 101-year-old Pauline Hough, who received a British Empire Medal for services to theatre in Nantwich, Cheshire.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised the honourees, stating: “Their dedication shows how lasting change is built through compassion, resilience and a commitment to others.”