Scottish rugby legend Doddie Weir passed away today after losing his long fight against motor neuron disease (MND).

The sporting giant, who died aged just 52, was a Scotland forward and well-known for never giving up, even as his mobility deteriorated.

His passing was announced by the family on the official Scotland Rugby Twitter account.

In their statement, the family 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."

He campaigned tirelessly for funding and research into MND, being very active in this until his last days.

Born in Edinburgh, Weir made 61 appearances for the Scotland National Rugby Team and played for the British & Irish Lions, a team consisting of eligible players from the national teams of Scotland, Ireland, England, and Wales.

With a great deal of respect for the man, many came out to pay their respects and express their sympathies. respects to Doddie Weir

Respects paid to Doddie Weir

Many public figures have paid their respects to the legend with others taking to social media under the hashtag RIP Doddie to remember him.

Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon expressed her sadness at his passing and praised how he faced MND, saying: This is so terribly sad. Doddie was one of our nation’s sporting legends, but the brave way he responded to MND surpassed anything ever achieved on the rugby pitch.

"He refused to let it dim his spirit and did so much to help others. My condolences to his loved ones."

UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak also shared his respects, adding: "Rest in peace Doddie Weir OBE.

"All my family’s thoughts are with Kathy and her sons."

Others took to Twitter to express their thoughts with one user saying: "RIP Doddie Weir. He fought his illness with everything he had and raised some amount of awareness and money for MND charity.

"Thoughts and prayers to his family, they have a place in my heart after losing my Mum to this awful disease."

While another simply added: "RIP Doddie Weir what a lovely man so sad."