Former England and Gloucestershire fast bowler David Lawrence, 60, is diagnosed with motor neurone disease after undergoing tests

Ex-England fast bowler David Lawrence became the latest popular sports figure to be diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

News of the five-cap Test player's illness came on MND awareness day, ahead of Headingley welcoming a full house of supporters wanting to pay tribute to legendary Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow - a sufferer for five years, who died following a short illness three weeks ago - for the Super League fixture against Leigh Leopards.

Lawrence, fondly known in the world of cricket by his nickname Syd, underwent tests earlier this month.

The 60-year-old is currently president of Gloucestershire, the club he served with distinction as one of the fastest bowlers in the world during the 1980s and 90s.

Will Brown, Gloucestershire's chief executive, said everyone at Nevil Road was devastated by the development.

'David is an icon of the game, a club legend and a trailblazer as the first British-born, black player to play for England,' Brown said.

'More than that he is the best of people: kind, loving, considerate and an inspiration to all of us here at Gloucestershire.

'I know I speak for everyone associated with the club in sending all our love to David, Gaynor and all of their family and friends.'

MND is a a rare, degenerative condition which affects the brain and nerves, for which there is no cure, brought to national attention by Burrow and his close friend Kevin Sinfield.

The former Leeds team-mates inspired fundraising efforts amounting to close to £20million to support people living with the disease.