Pete Frates, who inspired ice bucket challenge, 34

Pete Frates, a former college baseball player whose battle with Motor Neurone Disease helped inspire the ice bucket challenge that has raised more than £160 million worldwide, has died at the age of 34.

He died peacefully surrounded by his family.

“A natural born leader and the ultimate team-mate, Pete was a role model for all, especially young athletes, who looked up to him for his bravery and unwavering positive spirit in the face of adversity,” the family said.

“He was a noble fighter who inspired us all to use our talents and strengths in the service of others.”

The Ice Bucket Challenge began in 2014 when pro golfer Chris Kennedy challenged his wife’s cousin Jeanette Senerchia, whose husband has Motor Neurone Disease, which is also known as ALS.

MND patient Pat Quinn, of Yonkers, New York, picked up on it and started its spread, but when Frates and his family got involved, the phenomenon exploded on social media.

The process was simple: Take a bucket of ice water, dump it over your head, post a video on social media and challenge others to do the same or make a donation to charity. Most people did both.

Thousands of people participated, including celebrities, sports stars and politicians – even Donald Trump before his election and cartoon character Homer Simpson. Online videos were viewed millions of times.

“The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge represents all that’s great about this country – it’s about fun, friends, family, and it makes a difference to all of us living with ALS,” Frates said at the time.”

Pete Frates.