Newcastle Falcons pay tribute to rugby legend Doddie Weir
Former player had battled motor neurone disease
Newcastle Falcons have paid tribute to former player Doddie Weir, expressing their 'desperate sadness' at news of his death.
The 52-year-old, Scottish Rugby Union International, had battled motor neurone disease for six years when he passed away yesterday.
Weir helped the Falcons to the Premiership title in the 1997-98 season and captained them to their 2001 Tetley's Bitter Cup Final win at Twickenham.
Following his diagnosis with MND, Weir made it his mission to raise as much money as possible for research into the condition.
Last night, Newcastle Falcons issued the following statement:
"It is with desperate sadness that Newcastle Falcons has learned of the passing of our former player and lifetime friend, Doddie Weir OBE.
"A legend as a player, Doddie helped the Falcons ascend into the top flight and was an instrumental part of the squad which lifted the 1997-98 Premiership title - still the only team to achieve this remarkable feat the first season after promotion.
"The Scotland and British & Irish Lions lock captained the Falcons in their victorious 2001 Tetley's Bitter Cup final at Twickenham, and even after his departure from the club in 2002 remained a regular presence at Kingston Park Stadium.
"Following his diagnosis of motor neurone disease in 2017 Doddie showed his characteristic mixture of determination and good humour in raising many millions for research into the currently-incurable condition.
"It was our honour to display his foundation's logo on the front of our shirts when we played at St James' Park in front of a club record crowd of more than 30,000 in 2018, and to play our part in supporting their incredible fundraising activity.
"All associated with Newcastle Falcons would like to express our sadness at hearing the news of Doddie's passing, whilst at the same time remembering the many happy memories and good times of which he was a central part."
Among others to pay tribute, his friend and former Rugby League international Rob Burrow, who also has MND, called him 'the reason for being so positive'.
The Prince and Princess of Wales have described him as 'a hero'.
He leaves behind his wife, Kathy, and 3 sons.