The legendary lock passes away at the age of 52

Former Scotland and British & Irish Lions lock Doddie Weir has passed away at the age of 52, five years after announcing his diagnosis with motor neurone disease in 2017.

The brave figure who has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and millions of pounds for MND research through his My Name’5 Doddie foundation since his diagnosis, was awarded an OBE in 2019.

Related: Find out more about – and donate to – My Name’5 Doddie Foundation

Weir’s wife Kathy said, via the Scottish Rugby Union’s official channels: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved husband and father, Doddie.

“Doddie was an inspirational force of nature. 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 (Motor Neurone Disease) for so many years.

“Doddie put the same energy and even more love and fun into our lives together: he was a true family man. Whether working together on the farm, on holiday, or celebrating occasions with wider family and friends, Doddie was always in the thick of it. We are lucky to have shared our lives with him and we cherish all those memories: his love and warmth, his support and advice, his quick wit, and his terrible jokes. 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 whilst his own battle may be over, his fight continues through his foundation, until a cure is found for all those with this devastating disease.

“Hamish, Angus, Ben and I would like to thank everyone for your support and for respecting our privacy at this difficult time.”

All at Rugby World wish to pass our deepest condolences to the Weir family, his friends, and all in the greater rugby community who are feeling this terrible loss.

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