Tributes from across the internet have began to flood in as people pay their respects and share memories of the former Scotland rugby international Doddie Weir who has died at the age of 52.
Doddie was diagnosed with motor neurone disease five years ago in June 17 and dedicated his life to raising millions to help find a cure through his foundation My Name’5 Doddie.
His charity work was heralded by the MND community and he was recognised for this alongside his rugby career with an OBE in 2019, the Daily Record reports.
READ MORE: Scottish rugby legend Doddie Weir dies aged 52 after MND battle
The First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, paid tribute to Doddie - who’s real name was George - for his bravery in the face of adversity.
She tweeted: "This is so terribly sad. Doddie was one of our nation’s sporting legends, but the brave way he responded to MND surpassed anything ever achieved on the rugby pitch. He refused to let it dim his spirit and did so much to help others. My condolences to his loved ones. #RIPDoddie"
Former Scotland captain Gavin Hastings described his ex-teammate as "a giant among men", and sent his condolences to Doddie's family.
He said: "Doddie. You have been a giant amongst big men. You have never complained, never felt sorry for yourself but have sought to make the world a more comfortable place for those who come after you. RIP Big Man and our love goes out to Kathy and the boys."
Scottish football icon Sir Kenny Dalglish said Doddie left behind "an incredible legacy". He said: "Very sad to hear the news about Doddie Weir. He led my example, inspiring so many others with MND and made great strides towards treatment and ultimately finding a cure for the disease. He leaves behind an incredible legacy. Our sympathy goes to his wife and 3 boys. RIP Doddie."
Scottish Rugby released a statement on social media announcing the tragic news just weeks after the sporting legend made an emotional return to Murrayfield.
Doddie was was greeted by a standing ovation from the crowds as his family helped him out onto the pitch holding a rugby ball ahead of the match against New Zealand All Blacks on Sunday, November 13.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar described Doddie as a "force to be reckoned with", saying: "Doddie Weir was a force to be reckoned with - on the pitch and as a campaigner. He became an inspiration to many and a champion for those battling MND. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."
Leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Douglas Ross described Mr Weir as "a colossus".
The Highlands and Island MSP said: "So sad to hear of Doddie Weir's passing. Doddie was a colossus on the pitch and his brave fight for a cure to MND was an inspiration. My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family."
The MND Association paid tribute to the "inspirational" campaigner, saying: "We’re sorry to hear that Doddie Weir OBE has died. Since sharing his MND diagnosis in 2017, Doddie became an inspiration to many, raising awareness and campaigning tirelessly on behalf of those with MND. Our thoughts are with Doddie’s wife Kathy, his 3 sons, family and friends."
TV presenter Nicky Campbell said Doddie "lit up a room". He said: "He lit up a stadium. He lit up a room. He lit up our studio. And - I’ll never forget our night in Cardiff on those rusty nails. (Whisky and Drambuie) although much of it I did forget - oh my Lord"
Journalist and TV presenter Dan Walker simply said: "I hope his family never forget how much he was loved #DoddieWeir "
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