Ex-rugby player recognised for MND charity work

A former professional rugby union player has been awarded an honorary fellowship in recognition of his career and his work to raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

Former Gloucester lock Ed Slater was diagnosed with the degenerative condition in 2022, leading to his immediate retirement from the sport.

He later founded the 4Ed charity, which raises money, awareness of MND and provides grants, equipment, home adaptations and emotional support for people affected by the condition.

As he was awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the University of Gloucestershire, Mr Slater said he was "extremely proud" of his achievement.

An honorary fellowship is an award given to individuals who show a significant contribution to the university, the local region or a specific field.

"I moved to the area after changing from Leicester Tigers to play for Gloucester, without realising how the county would become our real home as a family, the place where we would make so many friends and fall in love with the surroundings," Mr Slater said.

Mr Slater said he had taken the "responsibility" of representing Gloucester "very seriously" and aims to "give back to the community through fundraising and awareness for MND".

MND affects nerves in the brain and the spinal cord, impacting a person's ability to walk, speak, swallow, and breathe.

Thanking the university, who described him as "an inspiration to students", Mr Slater said: "I look forward to continue contributing to this wonderful community."

The 4Ed campaign has organised several fundraising events, including a bike ride which saw Ed joined by professional rugby players to cycle 350 miles (563.27km) in 24 hours.

Recently, the charity also took part in a hybrid charity 745 game, bringing together both rugby union and rugby league legends, including Mike Tindall, Joe Marler and Danny Cipriani.

Held at both Headingley and Kingsholm, the game was named in honour of Mr Slater, Rob Burrow, who died from MND in 2024, and Doddie Weir, who died from the condition in 2022.

Follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.