‘A giant amongst big men’ – tributes pour in for Doddie Weir
The rugby and sporting world has paid tribute to Doddie Weir after the Scotland legend’s sad passing was announced on Saturday evening.
The 52-year-old, who won 61 caps for Scotland, had been battling MND since 2016. He was an enormously popular person in rugby circles and clubs, former team-mates and organisations rushed to send condolences and pay their respects on social media.
Gavin Hastings: “Doddie. You have been a giant amongst big men. You have never complained, never felt sorry for yourself but have sought to make the world a more comfortable place for thosewhocomeafteryou.rip Bigmanandourlovegoesout to Kathy and the boys.”
Scott Hastings: “We lost the most lovable man in the world today! DODDIE WEIR we will honour your legacy & find a cure for MND @Mndoddie5 #tacklemnd #doddieaid #united2endmnd.”
Brian Moore: “Very sorry to hear about the death of Doddie Weir. An outstanding man in every sense and one who will be sorely missed. RIP Big Man.”
Kenny Dalglish: “Very sad to hear the news about Doddie Weir. He led by example, inspiringsomanyotherswith MND and made great strides towards treatment and ultimately finding a cure for the disease. He leaves behind an incrediblelegacy.oursympathy goes to his wife and 3 boys. RIP Doddie.”
Bill Beaumont: “Today, the rugby family mourns one of its most inspirational members. Doddie Weir was a force of nature on and off the rugby field and a role model to all. His strength of character was unwavering, inspiring and moving. He channelled his determination into fighting his own battle, while also fighting the battle for all MND sufferers through his tireless campaigning and fundraising. Always with a smile. Quite simply, he was a remarkable man. The thoughts of the global rugby family are with Doddie’s wife Kathy and three children Hamish, Angus and Ben at this difficult time.”
Newcastle Falcons: “It is with desperate sadness that Newcastle Falcons has learned of the passing of our former player and lifetime friend, Doddie Weir OBE. Rest in peace, Doddie.”
Melrose Rugby: “We would like to pay tribute to our dear friend Doddie Weir OBE who sadly passed away earlier today after a long and public battle with MND. Every single person who has been touched by Doddie’s kindness, bravery, and humour will feel his loss.”
Stewart’s Melville: “From everyone at Stewart’s Melville College, we pass on our condolences to wife Kathy, sister Kirsty, brothers Tom, Chris, sons Hamish, Angus and Ben and the wider Weir family. A mountain of a man - Thank you for everything.”
Edinburgh Rugby: “Everyone at Edinburgh Rugby is heartbroken by this news, as we and the rugby community lose a friend of irrepressible bravery and spirit. Rest in peace Doddie.”
Glasgow Warriors: “An inspiration. A legend. One of a kind. From all of us at Glasgow Warriors, we send our heartfelt condolences to Doddie's family. Thank you for everything, Doddie. Rest in peace.”