JILL Douglas, sports presenter and chief executive of My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, the charity he set up to help improve the lives of those affected by the disease, has paid tribute to the rugby legend.

Speaking shortly after the memorial service on Monday December 19 2022  Ms Douglas, a close friend of Doddie  said: “It was a really special service, full of fun and memories, and remembering the impact Doddie had on everyone’s lives.

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“He was a huge character and he lived such a great and rich life, and that was certainly all celebrated in that service.

“It was a fitting send-off to Doddie, and I am sure he would have enjoyed hearing some of those great old stories again.”

Border Telegraph: Former rugby union player Phil Vickery with Jill Douglas at Melrose Parish Church before a memorial service for Doddie Former rugby union player Phil Vickery with Jill Douglas at Melrose Parish Church before a memorial service for Doddie (Image: PA Wire)

She said Doddie's wife, Kathy, and their three sons: Hamish, Angus and Ben, who all attended the service would have “taken great comfort being part of the service.”

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Ms Douglas added: “Everyone in this town knew him.

“He was known across the world because of those trademark tartan suits, because of the work he did, but also he was a great sportsman.

“We forget what a great player he was as well, all the way through the 90s, so I think people all over the world will be raising a glass to him today.”

When asked about the future of the foundation, Ms Douglas said: “We carry on what he started.

“What a legacy to leave. There’s still work to be done, we still haven’t found a cure, but we are making progress, we are on the cusp of a breakthrough.

“It’s our responsibility to carry on that drive.

“He inspired us while he was alive but he will continue to inspire now he’s gone because he wants to help those who have been given the same diagnosis as him.”