Former Wales captain and much-loved rugby commentator Eddie Butler has died at the age of 65.
Butler 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.
Confirming the sad news, the charity said in a statement: "The Prostate Cymru charity is devastated by the passing of its much loved ambassador Eddie Butler.
LIVE: Latest Eddie Butler tributes as rugby world devastated
"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."
You can leave your tributes to Eddie in the comments section below
Butler played 16 times for Wales between 1980 and 1984, captaining the side on six occasions. He rose to prominence in Ray Prosser's Pontypool side that took the Welsh club scene by storm throughout the late 1970s and early 80s.
He also played for Cambridge University whilst studying French and Spanish at Fitzwilliam College between 1976 and 1978.
Butler also toured with the Lions in 1983.
The No.8 retired from playing in 1985 and went on to become a teacher before launching a career in journalism that led him to the commentary booth, where he cut his teeth alongside the great Sir Bill McLaren.
He became the BBC's lead commentator after McLaren's retirement and formed entertaining partnerships with the likes of Jonathan Davies and Brian Moore.
In more recent times, he has also been the lead commentator on Premier Sports' coverage of the Welsh regional sides in the United Rugby Championship.
In a statement, the broadcaster said: "Everyone at Premier Sports is incredibly saddened to learn of the passing of Eddie Butler.
"Eddie's ability to capture the audience's imagination with his instantly recognisable voice and charisma was unparalleled. More than that, Eddie Was a dear friend and a colleague to many and will be sadly missed.
"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. Rest east Ed."
Butler also gained many plaudits for his finely-polished montages that were often part of coverage of major sporting or political events. His last marked the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Leading the tributes was his co-commentator Moore, who said: "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.
"Condolences to Sue and your family. Sport has lost an iconic voice, I have lost a very dear friend.
"Goodbye Edward."
Welsh Rugby Union chairman Rob Butcher said: “For many Eddie was the voice of Welsh rugby and he will be sorely missed by supporters around the globe as well as his friends throughout the game and here at the WRU.
“He proudly represented his country as a player, was a mainstay in press boxes around the world long after he retired from the game and has been prolific in the way in which he has served Welsh rugby in both the written and spoken word over decades.
“Our thoughts and prayers go to his family, who we also know well and cherish, and his close friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.
"He was a unique individual and the game in Wales owes him a debt of gratitude for his contributions both on and off the pitch.”
Read more:
Brian Moore devastated by Eddie Butler death as he says moving goodbye
Eddie Butler death: Latest tributes as rugby world devastated
