Tributes from Leeds to Scottish rugby union star Doddie Weir after battle with MND
Rob Burrow's praised Weir calling him a "friendly giraffe"
Rob Burrow paid tribute to an inspirational "warrior" Doddie Weir following his death at the age of 52 after a battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
The former Scotland international's death was announced by his family and the Scottish Rugby Union on Saturday evening.
Weir, who won 61 Scotland caps before retiring in 2004, was diagnosed with MND in 2016 and used his profile to push for better research, and raised millions of pounds.
Weir continued his fundraising campaign and set up the 'My Name'5 Doddie' foundation as the disease took its toll.
He developed a close relationship with Super League club Leeds Rhinos after their former player Burrow was diagnosed with MND in 2019.
Burrow has also raised awareness of MND through considerable charity work.
Earlier this month, Weir met with former Rhinos player Kevin Sinfield at the start of his 'Ultra 7 in 7' challenge, when he ran seven 'ultra marathons' in as many days for MND-related causes.
In a Twitter post, Burrow said: "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."
In November 2021, the Government committed at least £50 million to help find new therapies, and eventually a cure, for MND, a condition in which the brain and nerves progressively degenerate.
Sinfield also paid tribute to Weir.
"Doddie was a giant as a player, but his campaigning following his MND diagnosis made him a colossus," the former Rhinos captain said.
"I am honoured to have been able to call Doddie my friend and I know his spirit lives on in all of us who knew him. He will always be a champion."
A statement from the RFU read: "The England Rugby family are deeply saddened by the passing of one of the game's greats in Doddie Weir.
"A true character on and off the field. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."