Scottish Rugby ambassadors sign up for Raeburn Place Foundation

the-development

Raeburn Place Foundation has launched an official ambassador programme – and former Scotland rugby captain Mike Blair and current internationalist Dave Denton are the inaugural members.

The new ambassadors will work with the Foundation to promote RPF’s charitable objectives and support the capital fundraising programme for the redevelopment of the historic Raeburn Place ground.

RPF Chairman, David Newlands, said: “We are delighted to launch our official ambassador programme with two such important stars of Scottish rugby. Mike has been associated with Raeburn Place since childhood and Dave, aged 18, played his first rugby for BATs at Raeburn Place after arriving in Scotland from Zimbabwe, so both have long term ties with the ground and understand what the Foundation’s ambitions are for this historic venue.

“We look forward to working with them and are hugely grateful for their support. They share our vision for the creation of a facility that will give people, irrespective of background or ability, the everyday opportunity to come together, play, watch, appreciate and celebrate sport, with a redeveloped Raeburn Place at the heart of that vision.”

Mike Blair commented: “I am delighted to be an Ambassador for RPF and the redevelopment of Raeburn Place. The ground holds a special place in my heart as it is the cornerstone of so many of my memories. The redevelopment will ensure the ground is sustainable for the long-term, providing many more youngsters with great memories.”

Dave Denton added: “I am really pleased to be formally associated with the Raeburn Place Foundation as an Ambassador. I fully support RPF’s aims to promote active participation in sport, as I know first-hand the benefits and enjoyment of being involved in physical activity and team sport.”

The Raeburn Place Foundation has also stated that work on the Stockbridge development will now start later than planned – in May next year.

The fundraising target to start the development is £7.7m, and while more than £2.5m has been secured, with a further £500k in commitments, the organisation still needs to raise over £4m before development works can start. As a result the programme of works has been reviewed and a new May 2017 start date agreed with lead contractor, Robertson Central.

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davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer