The wife of Scotland rugby hero Doddie Weir has told how he has been "an inspirational force of nature" as tributes flooded in following his death on Saturday.
Doddie battled motor neurone disease for six years and raised a total of £8million for research throughout his time living with the condition as he made it his mission to both raise money and awareness for the heartbreaking illness.
Doddie's wife Kathy said the 6ft 6in sportsman was brave off the field and on it, saying: "His unending energy and drive and his strength of character powered him through his rugby and business careers and, we believe, enabled him to fight the effects of MND for so many years, reports the Record.
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“Doddie put the same energy and even more love and fun into our lives together – he was a true family man. It is difficult to put into words how much we will miss him.
“MND took so much from Doddie but never his spirit and determination. He battled MND so bravely and, while his own battle may be over, his fight continues through his foundation until a cure is found for all those with this devastating disease.
“Doddie was an inspirational force of nature.”
The 52-year-old was capped 61 times for Scotland throughout his playing days and had a personality to match such a towering height. After his diagnosis, Doddie set up the My Name'5 Doddie foundation, replacing the 'S' with a '5' as to resemble his playing number.
Despite being told that he would be unable to walk, Doddie also defied the odds by continuing to use his arms and legs for four years before the condition eventually got the better of him physically.
In 2019 he was awarded an OBE for services to rugby, MND research and to the Borders community, where he lived with Kathy and their three sons Hamish, Angus and Ben.
Friends and families across the nation paid tribute to Doddie after hearing news of his passing on Saturday evening. Lorraine Kelly, Craig Chalmers, John Hartson and Nicola Sturgeon were among those.
Edinburgh's Lord Provost Robert Aldridge also led a heartfelt tribute, saying: "Edinburgh has lost a true sporting legend and inspiration to all with the sad passing of George ‘Doddie’ Weir.
"Through his long and celebrated rugby career and tireless work to raise funds and awareness of Motor Neurone Disease Doddie’s contribution to sport, charity and to the Capital has been outstanding.
"Not only was he one of the most successful and well-loved members of Scotland’s National Team, Melrose RFC and for the Newcastle Falcons but he was respected and loved by citizens, peers and rugby fans alike.
"The city was honoured to present Doddie with the Edinburgh Award in 2018 in recognition of the difference he has made to Edinburgh, to sport and to Motor Neurone Disease awareness and research.
"I would like to take this opportunity to offer my heartfelt condolences to Doddie’s family and friends. Today, Edinburgh mourns its gentle giant. His legacy will be felt for generations to come."
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