Fellow motor neurone disease sufferer and campaigner Rob Burrow paid tribute to an inspirational “warrior” Doddie Weir following his death at the age of 52.
He passed away six years after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
Weir, capped 61 times between 1990 and 2000, went on to raise millions through his My Name’5 Doddie foundation following his diagnosis in 2016.
The lock was given an OBE in 2019 for services to rugby, to MND research and to the Borders community.
He wrote on Twitter: “So sad to hear the news of the passing of my mnd hero Doddie Weir. I’m sorry to say, how many more warriors die before this stupid government give the 50m they said they would give. I’m absolutely gutted to see my friendly giraffe die. You are the reason for being so positive RIP,”
Burrow has been even more critical of the ferment yesterday when he and his wife Lindsey Burrow shared news about how the Rob Burrow Centre for MND at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds was progressing.
He said: “I’ve heard it is curable but underfunded in the past, with the money supposedly coming from the government. The money Kevin [Sinfield] has raised, over £6m, would start it off.
“I’m sorry, but this Tory government has blood on their hands, because [MND] kills six people every day.”
The Department of Health and Social Care have said they remain committed to spending “at least” £50m, although the MND association claim they are still awaiting a response to a letter from Health Secretary Steve Barclay.
Doddie Weir tributes:
Bill Beaumont tweeted: “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.”
Former Arsenal and Wales striker John Hartson wrote: “RIP Doddie Weir .. fought till the end! Raised so much awareness for MND .. thoughts are with the Weir family at this sad time.”
Former England hooker Brian Moore wrote: “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.”
Scott Hastings said: “We lost the most lovable man in the world today! DODDIE WEIR we will honour your legacy & find a cure for MND”
Rugby league club Leeds Rhino’s wrote: “It is with deep sadness that we have learned of the passing of Rugby Union star and MND campaigner Doddie Weir OBE. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends and this extremely sad time, rest in peace Doddie”
Former Scotland teammate Scott Hastings wrote: “We lost the most lovable man in the world today! DODDIE WEIR we will honour your legacy & find a cure for MND”
Sir Kenny Dalglish wrote: “Very sad to hear the news about Doddie Weir. He led my example, inspiring so many others with MND and made great strides towards treatment and ultimately finding a cure for the disease. He leaves behind an incredible legacy. Our sympathy goes to his wife and 3 boys. RIP Doddie”
TV Presenter Dan Walker commented: “I hope his family never forget how much he was loved.”
Former Scotland, Lions and Newcastle teammate Alan Tait wrote: “Totally gutted what a man and a friend , some found memories . Miss you big man”
Austin Healey said: “So sad to hear of the passing of the great @DoddieWeir5 one of a kind will be missed by the whole rugby world x”
Gavin Hastings wrote: “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 those who come after you. RIP Big Man and our love goes out to Kathy and the boys.”
The British & Irish Lions said in a statement: “We’re devastated to hear of the passing of Doddie. A Scotland legend, his determination to raise awareness & help find a cure for MND epitomised his personality. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, all connected with Scottish Rugby and his charity”
Kelly Brown wrote: “So so sad to hear this news. A giant of a man on and off the pitch…everybody loves Doddie Weir“