Scotland rugby legend Doddie Weir dies aged 52

Former Scotland international Doddie Weir has died at the age of 52 following a motor neurone disease that he was diagnosed six years ago.

Weir had a stellar domestic career playing for Newcastle Falcons and Border Reivers making 97 appearances apiece for both of them and featured for Scotland 61 times between 1990 and 2000.

He was awarded an OBE for his services to rugby, to MND research and to the Borders community and is survived by his wife Kathy and sons Hamish, Angus and Ben.

Weir was part of Scotland's side that clinched the Five Nations in 1999 - their last major tournament success. He set up the 'My Name'5 Doddie' foundation as a fundraiser for a battle with the MND.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved husband and father, Doddie," read a statement from the family via the Scottish Rugby Union.

"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 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. 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."