Brian Moore has paid a moving tribute to commentary partner Eddie Butler after being left devastated by the former Wales captain's sudden death.
Moore has been left crushed by the news which broke on Thursday evening and has rocked the rugby world. Butler, 65, was taking part in a fundraising hike for Prostate Cymru, for whom he was an ambassador, in Peru alongside his daughter Nell when he passed away in his sleep on Thursday morning.
Former England international Moore, who for so many years shared a commentary box with Butler for the BBC during the Six Nations, said in a statement on social media: "I am devastated by this news. Ed, I'm sorry I never told you how much I admired you as a broadcaster and as a man. Well, it wasn't like that between us, was it.
Read next : Former Wales captain and much-loved rugby commentator Eddie Butler has died
"Condolences to Sue and your family. Sport has lost an iconic voice, I have lost a very dear friend.
"Goodbye Edward."
Other influential Welsh rugby figures have also been paying tribute. You can follow the latest tributes here.
Ex-Wales captain Sam Warburton said: "Stunned at the news and passing of Eddie Butler. Thoughts with his family. What an amazing contribution to rugby and broadcasting. A privilege to have played and co-commentated with his voice. RIP Eddie
Former Wales scrum-half Mike Phillips added: "Shocking news about the great Eddie Butler. I can’t believe it! He was such a lovely guy. Thoughts are with the family."
World Rugby chief Bill Beaumont said in a statement: "Eddie Butler was a true commentary great - the recognisable voice of the sport to millions & unrivalled in his storytelling behind the mic. Captain of Wales and a superb player, he was also a true gentleman. I am deeply shocked. My thoughts are with his family and BBC colleagues."
Confirming the sad news, Prostate Cymru said: "The Prostate Cymru charity is devastated by the passing of its much loved ambassador Eddie Butler.
"Ed was the voice of Wales and we were honoured to have him as part of our charity. We will cherish the many memories we have of him.
"Over the last week, Ed once again showed his generosity and steadfast commitment to good causes by joining 25 Prostate Cymru fundraisers, including his daughter Nell, on the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu.
"In the early hours of Thursday 15 September, Ed passed away peacefully in his sleep at Ecoinka base camp in the Peruvian Andes. He leaves behind his wife Susan and six children who are very much in our thoughts.
"The charity will not be making any immediate further comment. We also ask that the family's privacy is respected during this difficult time."
Butler played 16 times for Wales between 1980 and 1984, captaining the side on six occasions.
