BBC commentator and ex-Wales captain Eddie Butler dies aged 65 in Peru amid charity trek-Alicia Adejobi-Entertainment – Metro

Eddie Butler died peacefully in his sleep in Peru (Picture: Gareth Everett/Huw Evans Agency)

Eddie Butler, a BBC commentator and former rugby player, has died at the age of 65.

The journalist, who was also a former Wales rugby union captain, was in Peru for a charity trek when he died in his sleep.

Announcing the news, a statement from Prostate Cymru said the charity was ‘devastated’ by his death.

Their statement said: ‘Ed was the voice of Wales and we were honoured to have him as part of our charity. We will cherish the many memories we have of him.

‘Over the last week, Ed once again showed his generosity and steadfast commitment to good causes by joining 25 Prostate Cymru fundraisers, including his daughter Nell, on the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu.’

The charity revealed that Butler died ‘peacefully in his sleep’ at the Ecoinka base camp in the Peruvian Andes on Thursday morning (September 15).

Prostate Cymru added: ‘The charity will not be making any immediate further comment. We also ask that the family’s privacy is respected during this difficult time.’

Butler won 16 caps during his time playing for Wales (Picture: Rex Features)

Butler was described as ‘the voice of Welsh rugby’ by the club’s chairman Rob Butcher who led tributes for their former player (Picture: Rex Features)

Butler represented the nation between 1980 and 1984 (Picture: PA)

A spokesperson for the Welsh Rugby Union tweeted a tribute for their former team captain, and wrote: ‘We are devastated to hear of Eddie’s passing and everyone in Welsh rugby sends their sincerest condolences to Eddie’s family and loved ones.’

Butler won 16 caps for Wales and represented the nation between 1980 and 1984, before going on to tour New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions in 1983.

Even after his retirement, Butler remained aligned with the club and went on to provide match commentary for the BBC as well as take on a variety of other media work.

He also made a foray in teaching in his latter years and also founded a property development company.

WRU chairman Rob Butcher led the tributes to Butler and said: ‘For many Eddie was the voice of Welsh rugby and he will be sorely missed by supporters around the globe as well as his friends throughout the game and here at the WRU.

Following his retirement, Butler went on to provide match commentary for the BBC and even became a teacher for a time (Picture: Rex Features)

‘He proudly represented his country as a player, was a mainstay in press boxes around the world long after he retired from the game and has been prolific in the way in which he has served Welsh rugby in both the written and spoken word over decades.

‘Our thoughts and prayers go to his family, who we also know well and cherish, and his close friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time. He was a unique individual and the game in Wales owes him a debt of gratitude for his contributions both on and off the pitch.’

Former England captain Sir Bill Beaumont also highlighted Butler’s talents and tweeted: ‘Eddie Butler was a true commentary great – the recognisable voice of the sport to millions & unrivalled in his storytelling behind the mic. Captain of Wales and a superb player, he was also a true gentleman.’

Butler is survived by his wife Susan and six children.

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