Ally McCoist leads messages of support to Chris Hoy following terminal cancer diagnosis

Sporting giants and politicians lead the messages of strength and support to Sir Chris Hoy after the Olympian revealed he has terminal cancer.

The cycling legend, 48, announced he had chemotherapy in February this year after doctors discovered a tumour. Last night he revealed his cancer is terminal and he has a life expectancy of "two to four years".

In a tragic twist, his wife Sarra Hoy, was diagnosed with a "very active and aggressive" type of multiple sclerosis around the same time. The couple who share two children, Callum, 10, and Chloe, 7, told the Sunday Times they feel lucky because, although their illnesses are incurable, they can still be treated.

Prime Minister Kier Starmer, First Minister John Swinney and Scotland legend Ally McCoist were among the first to lead public tributes to the Hoy Family.

Football legend Ally McCoist OBE sent his 'love and strength' adding that Hoy was a 'superstar in every sense of the word.'

Cyclist Mark Cavendish said Sir Hoy was a 'Hero of a human being' after making his condition public.

Sir Keir Starmer told the Hoy Family the 'whole country is behind them. He said: “Such sad news.

“Chris is a British sporting legend. To face his diagnosis with such positivity is inspiring.

“The whole country is behind him and his family."

The First Minister John Swinney said: “I send every good wish to Sir Chris Hoy and his family.

“He has always inspired us by all that he has done.

“He is a person of incredible courage and that shines through today.”"

Scottish para-cyclist Neil Fachie added: "Dealing with this in the way only Chris Hoy could. Always the inspiration. Lora and I are thinking of you all."

Racing driver Mark Blundell said: "Sending love and strength Chris."

Paddy McGuiness