Eddie Butler, former Wales rugby union captain and journalist, dies aged 65

Eddie Butler, the former Wales rugby union captain who went on to become a much-loved writer and broadcaster, has died at the age of 65.

Butler was reported by the Prostate Cymru charity to have died in his sleep during a fund-raising trek in Peru.

“Ed was the voice of Wales and we were honoured to have him as part of our charity,” read a statement. “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.

“In the early hours of Thursday 15 September, Ed passed away peacefully in his sleep at Ecoinka base camp in the Peruvian Andes. He leaves behind his wife Susan and six children, who are very much in our thoughts. 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, who rose to prominence with Pontypool at the No 8 position in the 1970s, won 16 caps between 1980 and 1984, during which time he also toured New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions.

After rugby Butler had a short stint as a teacher, then with a property development company before finding another niche in journalism, becoming a much-respected figure with the Guardian and Observer, and broadcasting with the BBC. He would excel for the broadcaster in commentary on rugby, but also added colour to other major sporting events, notably Olympic coverage.

The former England hooker Brian Moore paid tribute to his friend and BBC colleague on social media. “I am devastated by this news,” Moore tweeted. “Ed, I’m sorry I never told you how much I admired you as a broadcaster