Since I last wrote two of my very favourite Scotsmen have featured heavily in the news, and sadly for different reasons.

On a very happy note, Thursday of last week marked the 80th birthday of the peerless Sir Billy Connolly, and what a man he is.

He’s had a fair few mentions in this column over the years and we are always quick to point out that a Glasgow taxi driver helped get him his big break, with said driver convincing Michael Parkinson - while Parky was in the back of his cab - to get The Big Yin on his show.

The rest, as the saying goes, is history, although it’s fair to say Billy would have made it with or without that recommendation, some stars are born to shine.

I must admit, I spent a fair amount of time at the tail end of last week watching old clips of his sketches and talk show appearances. Time well spent!

So a belated but very happy, special 80th birthday to Mr Billy Connolly and lang may yer lum reek.

READ MORE: Glasgow celebrates Billy Connolly on his 80th birthday

In other news during the past week, we did of course hear the extremely sad news that Doddie Weir had passed away.

Unlike Billy, in that he’s not from Glasgow, but there’s no doubt Doddie captured the hearts of people across Scotland, the UK and internationally for his incredible strength and bravery in fighting that most cruel disease MND.

Seeing him recently at Murrayfield before Scotland’s game against the All Blacks was as powerful a sporting moment as you’ll witness this year, especially as he was - as always - flanked by his family.

So to hear of his passing at the weekend brought a tear to the eye, as he’d battled so courageously for so long.

That’s before you even acknowledge just what a brilliant sportsman he was, his 61 Scotland caps and British and Irish Lions representation a testament to that.

And back on the subject of funny YouTube clips, just search 'Doddie Weir mistaken identity' and enjoy...

So, two titans in the news and in different ways, each having faced health challenges in recent times but with those faced with great dignity.

If Doddie’s fight in particular has inspired you, then you could do worse than support the latest annual Doddie Aid this January, a great way to get fit as part of a huge community and raise money to support future MND research at the same time.

You’ll be in the company of even more great Scots if you do.

Stay safe.