'Absolute legends of rugby' to race for charity

A rugby star says he is honoured "two absolute legends" of the sport will go head-to-head in a team cycle race to raise funds for those living with 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.

His former club announced that ex-England players Mike Tindall and Martin Johnson CBE will captain a team each racing 45 miles (72km) from their home stadium to Birmingham's Villa Park on 28 March, raising money for the 4ED Foundation.

Mr Slater said: "It's a huge honour to know that two absolute legends of the game, and others to be announced, will be taking part in this challenge."

Former players taking part in the race will be announced "over the coming weeks", Gloucester Rugby said.

The funds raised for the 4ED Foundation through the race will go towards supporting people who have been affected by MND with home adaptions, days out for carers, and mental health support.

At least 25% of the money raised will be donated to former England rugby captain Lewis Moody and his family, or his chosen charity, after he announced his MND diagnosis in October.

The teams will be racing to this year's Slater Cup, which is contested between Gloucester and Leicester Tigers, Mr Slater's former clubs, every season.

Mr Slater said: "Both Gloucester and Leicester mean a huge amount to me and I'm forever grateful to the support they've shown me and my family, particularly over the past three years."

He added the cup was about "much more" than him.

"It's about raising awareness of this cruel disease and funds to support people impacted by it.

"I'm sure with the weight of Tinds, Johnno and others, we can make a big difference to the MND community," he added.