TRIBUTES have poured in after the death of rugby's Doddie Weir OBE.

The former Scotland International, who also had a spell at Newcastle Falcons, has died aged 52 after a battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

Weir was diagnosed with MND in December 2017 and went on to set up the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation (MNDF) which has now committed almost £8 million to research projects across the UK.

In a statement released by the Scottish Rugby Union on Saturday, Kathy Weir said: "It is with great sadness that 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 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 all 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."

Former club Newcastle Falcons said: "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, he remained a regular presence at Kingston Park Stadium.

"Following his diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease, 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."

Tynedale RFC added: "We have lost a great man of rugby and a truly inspirational human being. Rest in peace Doddie."

Northumberland County Council leader Glen Sanderson called Weir a "great example of sporting ability but more so bravery." He added: You played a great game which will benefit hundreds."

Northumberland civic head Ian Hutchinson, who has raised £24,500 for Weir's foundation, said: "A true gentleman who cared so much for others. 

"His charity will be a lasting legacy, helping many more people.

"I am deeply saddened by his passing."

Cllr Nick Oliver for Corbridge said the news was very sad. "He was my next door neighbour back when he played at the Falcons", he said. "A kind and generous man with a sharp sense of humour and a great neighbour. The night before we moved out we popped round for a quick drink and were there well into the early hours."