TRIBUTES TO RUGBY LEGEND EDDIE

BRIAN Moore has been left devastated by the death of BBC broadcasting colleague Eddie Butler at the age of 65.

Butler, a former Wales captain, died on Thursday during a trek in Peru which had been organised to raise money for prostate cancer.

Former England hooker Moore, who worked alongside him providing commentary on Six Nations matches, said he had felt “incredibly close” to Butler.

“I’m just devastated, especially for him to die at that age and on that sort of charity trip,” Moore said.

“We didn’t spend that much time in each other’s company, didn’t visit the houses and yet we were – I felt at least and I’m pretty sure he felt the same way – just incredibly close.

“I had immense respect for him. I think Eddie went a long way to pleasing most people because if people listened with any objectivity they had to understand he knew his subject thoroughly, he was a wordsmith, and he knew when not to speak.

Butler starred in Pontypool’s back row in the 1970s and captained the side between 1982 and 1985.

His Test debut came in 1980 when Wales defeated France 18- 9. He retired from international rugby in 1985 aged 27.

Butler joined Radio Wales as a press and publicity officer in 1984. His poetic poise and lilt lent itself in later years to colourful voiceover pieces, often delivered on Olympics duty.

Former Wales playmaker Jonathan Davies also tweeted a tribute to Butler.

“Totally devastated with the news about Eddie,” he posted.

“Lost a charming man and a great friend. My thoughts are with Sue and all the children.”

Gabby Logan, who fronts the BBC’s Six Nations coverage, added: “Eddie was a wonderful broadcaster, the kindest man and such great company.

“Many of us who worked with him are heartbroken.”

Tributes were also paid by Wales’ politicians, with First Minister Mark Drakeford tweeting: “Extremely sad to hear of Eddie’s passing.

“Eddie was an incredible player and a supremely talented broadcaster. Wales will miss him terribly.”