Doddie Weir, former Scotland rugby international, dies after lengthy battle with motor neurone disease | UK News

Former Scotland rugby player Doddie Weir has died aged 52 after a long battle with motor neurone disease (MND).

His wife, Kathy, said he was a “true family man” and “it’s hard to put into words how much we will miss him”.

She said in a statement, released by Scotland Rugby: “Doddie is an inspiring force of nature.

“His unwavering energy and drive, as well as the strength of his character, has carried him through his business and rugby career, and has, we believe, helped him fight back.” effects of MND over many years.

“MND has taken a lot from Doddie, but never his spirit and determination. Hamish, Angus, Ben and I would like to thank everyone for their support.”

The MND Association said that since sharing her diagnosis in 2017, Weir has “become an inspiration to many” by raising awareness and “tirelessly campaigning on behalf of those” with the disease. .

Nicola Sturgeon said Weir’s death was “very sad”.

Scotland’s First Minister tweeted: “Doddie is one of our nation’s sporting legends, but the brave way he responded to the MND surpassed anything ever achieved on a rugby field. .

“He didn’t let that cloud his spirit and did a lot to help others. My deepest condolences to his loved ones.”