Curling star David Murdoch’s father dies

GREAT Britain’s Olympic curling silver medallist David Murdoch has paid tribute to his “brilliant” father following his sudden death.

Matt Murdoch (centre) has died - his son David, Olympic curling medallist, has paid tribute in a statement. Picture: PA

Team GB’s men’s curling skip at the Sochi Olympics last month said his family were “shocked and devastated” by Matt Murdoch’s death yesterday.

It is thought the 70-year-old may have suffered a heart attack. He was said to be a fit and active man, and went curling yesterday.

In a statement released through his management, Murdoch said: “Myself and my entire family are shocked and totally devastated following the sudden loss of my father Matt Murdoch last night.

“As many within the sport may know, my dad was a three-time Scottish national curling champion and former president of the Royal Caledonian Curling Club. He was a brilliant dad to us all.

“My mum and dad inspired me, my brother and sister to take up curling when we were youngsters and have done so much to help us all in our chosen careers, in addition to helping to inspire many others to take up the sport.

“I dedicated my recent Sochi Olympic success to my parents, without whom I wouldn’t be where I am today.

“My dad will be much missed by us all and he was so happy to see me and touch the medal he has helped my whole life to aim towards.”

He added: “Our dad was much-loved - by all our family, by his friends and by the curling community.”

Murdoch, 35, originally from Lockerbie, is also a two-time world champion and three-time European champion.