The Prince and Princess of Wales have paid tribute to their friend Doddie Weir after he sadly passed away.
The Scots rugby legend sadly died after a five-year battle with Motor Neurone Disease. His death was confirmed by his family this evening.
However, Prince William and Kate took to social media to pay tribute to the 52-year-old.
They wrote: "Doddie Weir was a hero - we are so sad to hear of his passing. His immense talent on the pitch as well as his tireless efforts to raise awareness of MND were an inspiration. Our thoughts are with all those who loved him. He will be hugely missed across the entire rugby world. W&C"
Harry Potter author JK Rowling also paid tribute to him. She tweeted: "Incredibly sad to hear about the death of Doddie Weir. A wonderful, funny, warm and courageous man who’ll be deeply missed.
Sir Kenny Dalglish also 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."
Former Scotland international Doddie, who won 61 caps, was greeted by a standing ovation from the crowds as his family helped him out onto the pitch holding a rugby ball ahead of the match against New Zealand All Blacks on Sunday November 13.
A statement from the Weir family, signed by Doddie's wife Kathy, said: "It is with great sadness we announce the death of our beloved husband and father, Doddie.
"Doddie was an inspirational force of nature. His unending energy and drive, and his strength of character powered him through his rugby and business careers and, we believe, enabled him to fight the effects of MND (Motor Neurone Disease) for so many years.
"Doddie put the same energy and even more love and fun into our lives together: he was a true family man. Whether working together on the farm, on holiday, or celebrating occasions with wider family and friends, Doddie was always in the thick of it. We are lucky to have shared our lives with him and we cherish those memories: his love and warmth, his support and advice, his quick wit, and his terrible jokes. It is difficult to put into words how much we will miss him.
"MND took so much from Doddie, but never his spirit and determination. He battled MND so bravely, and whilst his own battle may be over, his fight continues through his foundation, until a cure is found for all those with this devastating disease.
"Hamish, Angus, Ben and I would like to thank everyone for your support and for respecting our privacy at this difficult time."
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