The honour was bestowed by The Prince of Wales, who presented Sir Kevin with his knighthood on Wednesday, acknowledging his distinguished sporting career and his significant efforts in raising millions of pounds for MND awareness.
Local leaders from Oldham, including Cllr Kamran Ghafoor (The Oldham Group), Cllr Sam Al-Hamdani (Liberal Democrat Group), Cllr Maggie Hurley (Royton Independent Group), Cllr Arooj Shah (Labour Group), and Cllr Max Woodvine (Conservative Group), issued a joint statement expressing their delight.
The councillors described Sir Kevin as a 'great hero both internationally and locally', highlighting his recent fundraising runs in Oldham for MND. They recognised his 'love for the town' and stated he is 'a great ambassador for our borough and the people of it'.
His journey from a player at Waterhead to a successful coach in rugby league and union was noted, but particular praise was given to his 'incredible feats to raise millions of pounds' for MND treatment, forging a 'special connection' with supporters.
“"This recognition could not be more deserved, and we would all like to place on record our recognition of a truly great Oldhamer."
Sir Kevin, patron of the MND Association, recently completed his seventh and final annual fundraising challenge, '7 in 7: The Grand Finale', running an ultra-marathon daily for seven days. This challenge was in memory of his close friend and former teammate, Rob Burrow CBE, who passed away from MND in June 2024 at the age of 41.
Residents of Oldham showed significant support as he passed through areas like Saddleworth and Chadderton, demonstrating the pride and admiration felt across the borough for the former Saddleworth School and Oldham Sixth Form College student.
Sir Kevin, who received the Honorary Freeman of the Borough in 2023, attended the investiture at Windsor with his wife Jayne. During his final challenge, he visited all 12 English Super League clubs, meeting numerous individuals affected by MND and their families.
Oldham continues to take immense pride in Sir Kevin's achievements, both in sport and his charitable work, with this knighthood serving as fitting recognition of his extraordinary contributions.
