LARGS MSP Jamie Greene has welcomed confirmation of £50 million worth of funding for motor neurone disease (MND) research by the UK Government.

The pledge will ensure that money is delivered to world-leading researchers to accelerate work into the debilitating disease.

The announcement comes shortly after the tragic passing of Scottish rugby legend Doddie Weir, who bravely fought the illness for six years and raised millions to fund research.

Mr Greene says the £50 million announcement will keep the UK on the frontline of MND research, with the hope that one day researchers will find a cure for the disease.

The local MSP said: “I’m delighted this has been confirmed.

“This is a horrible and cruel disease and my thoughts are with anyone in our community who has been diagnosed or lost a loved one to it.

“We have all been inspired by the bravery of Doddie Weir and this funding boost is a testament to his legacy, not least as we continue to work towards better treatment and a cure.”