Tag: rugby union

Scrum-ptious ‘hauf and hauf’ pairings return for Six Nations

EDINBURGH’S rugby fans can enjoy a fresh take on a classic Scottish serve this Six Nations, as two of the city’s leading independent drinks producers expand their collaborative ‘hauf and hauf’ offering.

Following a successful festive launch, Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing are rolling out their innovative whisky and beer pairings to an expanded list of pubs across the capital – timed to coincide with the 2026 Six Nations Rugby Championship.

The partnership, which has revived the time-honoured half-and-half tradition, now introduces an exclusive ‘hauf and hauf’ serve to mark the Six Nations, offering fans a great way to back Scotland with a traditional Scottish pairing.

The initiative celebrates not only Scotland’s sporting passion, but also its rich drinks heritage, with the two family-run businesses showcasing their shared commitment to quality, flavour and community.

William Wemyss, Co-Founder of Wemyss Family Spirits, said: “The Six Nations is the perfect moment to bring people together over great food, drink and sport.

“Building on our hauf and hauf collaboration with Stewart Brewing, this partnership is about celebrating Scotland through carefully paired flavours, giving fans an enjoyable and responsible way to mark match days during the Six Nations

“It’s about putting a fun, flavour-led spin on a beloved Scottish ritual, one that encourages people to slow down and savour the experience.”

Fans are encouraged to enjoy a classic Scottish hauf and hauf – pairing a Stewart Brewing beer with a Wemyss Family Spirits whisky – as a simple and sociable way to back Scotland on matchdays.

To get Scottish supporters started, we’ve pulled together our favourite pairings which we think best reflects the character of our national side.

Stewart’s 80/- with Wemyss Spice King

A modern take on a classic Scottish serve. Stewart’s 80/- is one of Scotland’s most recognisable beers, making it a natural choice for fans backing the home side, while Spice King adds warmth and depth for those choosing to enjoy a dram alongside the match.

Edinburgh Black with Wemyss Peat Chimney

A richer, more full-bodied pairing inspired by the capital, home of Scottish Rugby. The smooth roast character of Edinburgh Black complements the gentle smoke of Peat Chimney, offering a robust but balanced option for match days at participating pubs across the city.

The hauf and hauf collaboration is now available at a growing list of pubs, including:

  • Teuchters, William Street
  • Whighams Wine Cellars, Hope Street
  • Athletic Arms (Diggers), Angle Park Terrace
  • O’Connors, Broughton Road
  • Jeremiah’s Taproom, Elm Row
  • Mathers Bar, Queensferry Street
  • Ye Olde Inn, Main Street
  • No. 1 High Street, High Street
  • 56 North, West Crosscauseway
  • The Ensign Ewart, Lawnmarket
  • The Bow Bar, Victoria Street
  • The Black Cat, Rose Street
  • The Cambridge Bar, Young Street

Jo Stewart, Co-founder of Stewart Brewing, said: “We’re passionate about bringing people together in pubs, and there’s no better excuse than the Six Nations.

“By matching some of our most-loved brews with Wemyss Family Spirits’ distinctive malts, we’re creating a uniquely Scottish way to toast each nation, with a dash of humour and a whole lot of flavour.”

The initiative marks a continued commitment by both businesses to support Scotland’s vibrant pub trade, boost independent hospitality and bring heritage drinks traditions to a new generation.

Both Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing remain proudly family-run, fiercely independent and dedicated to producing characterful drinks that celebrate craft and community.

With the Calcutta Cup clash against England fast approaching, now is the perfect time to get behind Scotland and show your support. Join fellow fans in Edinburgh pubs, soak up the Murrayfield atmosphere, and enjoy a hauf and hauf ahead of the big match.

The Six Nations ‘hauf and hauf’ serve will be available in participating venues from February 2nd, 2026.

Fans at Edinburgh Rugby 1872 Cup game help raise over £8000 for charity

Charity collection for former Scotland International raises £8,000 at 1872 Cup match  

Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity is delighted to announce that over £8,000 was raised through a charity collection at the 1872 Cup game at Hampden Park last month.  

The incredible amount raised by generous rugby fans who attended the December 20th match was raised in aid of Siobhan’s Legacy of Love, which was established in honour of former Scotland International Siobhan Cattigan.  

The 2025 collection has also surpassed the £7,500 raised for Siobhan’s Legacy of Love through a similar collection in 2024. Money was raised through bucket collections around the stadium, sales of limited edition matchday programmes and Glasgow Warriors flags, as well as through donations made via QR codes found on screen, in the match programme, and across hospitality areas.     

Glasgow Warriors Interim Managing Director Kenny Brown said: “Once again, our supporters showed just how special this club is. 

“To raise over £8,000 for Siobhan’s Legacy of Love at Hampden is an incredible achievement and something everyone connected with Glasgow Warriors can be immensely proud of.  

“The generosity shown on the day is a fitting tribute to Siobhan’s memory, and these funds will make a real difference to children and families supported by the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. I’d like to thank every supporter who donated, purchased a programme or flag, and the volunteers who gave up their time to make the collection such a success.” 

“Our heartfelt thanks to Glasgow Warriors for once again championing Siobhan’s Legacy of Love and honouring the life and memory of our beautiful girl,” said Neil and Morven Cattigan, Siobhan’s parents.

“The kind generosity of every single person who contributed ensures that Siobhan’s compassionate spirit and unwavering dedication to helping others shines brightly, as these vital funds go directly towards supporting sick children in Scotland. Thank you all!” 

“We would like to extend our gratitude to the generosity of those who attended the 1872 Cup match last month, and contributed to raising an outstanding £8,000,” added Kirsten Watson, CEO of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.

“Thanks to their support, and the tireless commitment and generosity of Siobhan’s friends and family, young patients with complex health conditions will be able to benefit from specialist support that is only available thanks to Siobhan’s Legacy of Love.” 

Founded in 2022 by the friends and family of Siobhan Cattigan, Siobhan’s Legacy of Love honours the life and memory of the Scotland international back-row who proudly earned 19 caps for her country.

Proceeds from the fund have helped children with complex health conditions from across Scotland access hippotherapy, which supports physical and mental health through the sensory and motor stimulation of horse-riding.   

To find out more and donate online, please visit: 

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/siobhanslegacy   

The Watsonian Football Club honours it’s legacy by celebrating over a century of it’s iconic kits

MEMBERS OLD AND NEW CAME TOGETHER TO SHARE MEMORIES OF THE CLUB’S HISTORY, INSPIRED BY MAROON AND WHITE STRIPES

As The Watsonian Football Club celebrates its 150th year, former players and current members came together at the Pavilion at Myreside, adorning variations of the club’s famous maroon and white kit.

With every kit telling a story and sparking memories both on and off the pitch, the opportunity was created for newer members to hear about the ‘Sonians’ that came before them, and for some of the club’s greats to be remembered for their contributions.

From recent triumphs like the Sarah Beaney Cup victories to the rich history of rugby legends who proudly wore the Watsonians crest, the significance of The Watsonian Football Club was brought to life through a remarkable collection of classic jerseys, many of which were rediscovered after years tucked away in attics and drawers. These kits serve as powerful reminders of the club’s lasting impact on generations of players and supporters over the past 150 years.

Marking its 150th year, The Watsonian Football Club is committed to reigniting and energising the community that has shaped its storied journey. A series of ongoing celebratory events and initiatives will complement the club’s on-field achievements, including four successful senior teams and a thriving youth section.

Through sharing their memories made in maroon and white, it quickly became clear that no matter where life has taken people, being part of The Watsonian Football Club is something that leaves a lasting impact.

With a framed shirt by his side, former Club Captain, John Macdonald, reflected on his time playing for Watsonians, saying: “This is all very nostalgic.

“I remember that at my peak, we were playing Melrose with a crowd of 7,500 watching. My sons still think I am winding them up when I bring it up, but they’ve seen some of the old footage. It was a different day, a different game, and obviously things move on, but it was a really golden period to be a part of the club.”

The game of rugby and the landscape of the sport in Scotland continue to be ever-changing, but The Watsonian Football Club has been able to enjoy its long history by adapting and growing with the game.

Notable ways that the club has done so in recent times include the introduction of Watsonian Women’s in the late 90s and success being enjoyed at the semi-professional level with the introduction of the now disbanded Super Series.

Kath Vass, a stalwart of Watsonians Women’s for 17 years, repping a stitched-together 2005 Watsonian Women’s kit, shared memories of success: “When we won the top league in Scottish women’s rugby, it was something truly special.

“Being able to bring the trophy here, to Myreside, is something that I will never forget. When I joined what was known as Watsonian Ladies in the year 2000, it was perfect.

“Having previously played elsewhere but living a stone’s throw away from Myreside, I was welcomed with open arms and immediately wowed by the community and professionalism of the club.”

Departing Club Captain and Super Series winner, Neil Irvine-Hess, reminisced on recent memories, adding: “Having played for Watsonians as a teen, I returned to the club in 2022 after a stint in the Borders.

“It was an honour to get asked to captain the Super Series team two years ago, and it’s something that I have taken seriously ever since. It is special and helps you appreciate the long history of the club.

“When I finish playing, I will look back with pride on my name being amongst so many great Watsonians players. The community at Watsonians is brilliant, from being dragged to the ground by the minis at a family day to winning the Super Series Championship, it is special to be part of The Watsonian Football Club’s history.”

With multiple Watsonians teams across different generations enjoying the highs of success and battling through tougher seasons, it has been important for the club to welcome players from across Edinburgh and further afield to sustain competitiveness and create a growing community.

By rediscovering the magic and the memories possessed by old stripes of maroon and white, The Watsonian Football Club continues to inspire its community to come together during its milestone 150th year.

With a full calendar of events planned in the lead-up to the 150th Gala Dinner in November, The Watsonian Football Club warmly invites past and present members to be part of this historic 2025 celebrations.

For more information on Watsonian Rugby Club, please visit:

 https://watsoniansrugby.com.

Wooden Spoon and LooseHeadz break two world records in rugby marathon

Last week in Mullingar FRC,Ireland, 96 rugby players set a world record the longest games of rugby. The marathon event ( which is currently being verified by Guinness World Records) raised funds for Wooden Spoon , LooseHeadz and The Lions Trust charities.

Scottish players included Ali Mackenzie-Cooper, Colin Stuart. Emma Riach, Hazel Malakoty, Lee Murru, Mark Kane, Murray Stewart, Paige Anastacia, Paul Sullivan, Simon Turner, Yvonne Tunnicliff.

Two teams have officially made rugby history at Mullingar RFC, Ireland where they completed the Longest Games of Rugby ever played, with the women’s team clocking an astonishing 26 hours and 33 minutes, and the men’s team pushing through to an incredible 34 hours and 48 minutes of continuous play.  (The footage from the matches is currently being verified by Guinness World Records.)

What began as an ambitious challenge turned into an unforgettable display of resilience, teamwork, and sheer determination as players faced extreme conditions over the two-day event.

With relentless heat beating down on Wednesday, several participants battled heatstroke, pushing their bodies to the limit. The local fire brigade came to the rescue, filling water baths on site to help players cool down and stay safe in the searing temperatures.

As night fell, a new challenge emerged: cold mist and damp air that settled in overnight. But the teams dug deep, supporting each other every step of the way.

As the sun rose on Thursday morning, exhaustion gave way to adrenaline, and with the finish line in sight, both teams summoned their final reserves of strength to break not one, but two world records.

Their historic achievement was celebrated in front of a roaring crowd at the Aviva Stadium last Friday evening as the British & Irish Lions took on Argentina.  The players were honoured at halftime with a pitch walk and greeted with thunderous applause as official world record holders.

So far, the event has raised an incredible £115,000 in support of three amazing charities: Wooden Spoon, LooseHeadz, and The Lions Trust, which will help save lives and support children through the power of rugby.

“This was about more than breaking records,” said Matt Bishop, Wooden Spoon player. “It was about community, perseverance, and doing something extraordinary to support causes we care deeply about.

“Every blister, bruise, and sleepless hour was worth it!”

Scotland was proudly represented on the field by Ali Mackenzie-Cooper, one of the most respected figures in Scottish women’s rugby history.

A key member of the original national side and number 12 on the roll of honour, Ali Mackenzie-Cooper earned 39 caps for Scotland, three as captain, and played in three World Cups. She was a standout in the famous 27-7 victory over France at the 1998 World Cup, where she was awarded Player of the Match, and also featured in Scotland’s Grand Slam win against England – a defining moment for Scottish rugby.

Beyond her illustrious playing career, Ali Mackenzie-Cooper has continued to shape the sport in Scotland as a specialist front-row coach, manager of the Scotland Women’s team, and as Treasurer of the Scottish Women’s Rugby Union (2005–2006). She was also instrumental in organising the 1994 Women’s Rugby World Cup – an event she and her team pulled together in just 90 days.

Sarah Webb, CEO , Wooden Spoon said: “We are incredibly grateful to every single player who took part in this extraordinary effort. Not only did they break world records – they’ve helped change lives.

“The funds raised will make a huge difference to the children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage that we support at  Wooden Spoon. This was a phenomenal act of grit, determination and community.”

A Big thank you to our sponsors who helped make The Longest Game happen : LMAX Exchange, ICS Mortgages, Canterbury, OPRO , NOCCO, d3 tape.

 Scottish players involved in the The Longest Game : Ali Mackenzie-Cooper, Colin Stuart. Emma Riach, Hazel Malakoty, Lee Murru, Mark Kane, Murray Stewart, Paige Anastacia, Paul Sullivan, Simon Turner, Yvonne Tunnicliff.

Year of Rugby, A Legacy of Giving: Celebrate National Wooden Spoon Day tomorrow

As the dust settles on the Men’s Six Nations and anticipation builds for the Women’s Six Nations, the Lions Tour, and the Women’s Rugby World Cup, there’s never been a better time to celebrate rugby’s power to unite and inspire.

Rugby isn’t just about the game—it’s about community, resilience, and making a difference. That’s exactly what Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, has been doing since 1983.

This National Wooden Spoon Day, on 19th March, we invite rugby fans and communities across the UK and Ireland to come together, honour the rich history and incredible impact of Wooden Spoon.

Whether you’re passing a rugby ball, fundraising, or simply spreading the word, every action counts. Let’s turn our passion for rugby into a force for good..

Get ready to join the celebration as National Wooden Spoon Day takes place on 19th March, marking the anniversary of Wooden Spoon’s founding in 1983. This special day is a chance to honour the rich history and incredible impact of Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, dedicated to supporting children with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland.

Wooden Spoon’s supporters, beneficiaries, and the wider rugby community are coming together to raise awareness and funds in a fun and meaningful way. We are inviting all to get involved. Whether you choose to host a fundraising event, take part in a rugby match, wear Wooden Spoon colours, or simply spread the word on social media, every action – big or small – makes a difference!

How You Can Get Involved

There are countless ways to celebrate #WoodenSpoonDay and show your support:

  • Post on Social Media: Either using the National wooden Spoon Day graphics or getting involved with The Pass the ball campaign
  • Organise a Mufti Day or Wooden Spoon Decorating Competition: A fun way for children to participate while raising funds.
  • Host a Fundraising Event: Plan a charity lunch, bake sale, or raffle to support the cause.
  • Wear Wooden Spoon Colours: Show solidarity and spread awareness by donning Wooden Spoon-themed outfits.
  • Join the ‘Pass the Ball’ Social Media Campaign: Take part in the viral movement kicking off on the 19th March
  • Donate to Wooden Spoon

Recent impact : Sensory room at Murrayfield Stadium

In February 2025, a new sensory room was officially opened at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh by HRH, The Princess Royal.

Funded by a £9,000 grant from Wooden Spoon Edinburgh, this facility provides a quieter, supportive space for rugby fans and concertgoers who may feel overwhelmed by the passionate atmosphere at Scotland’s largest stadium.

Scottish Rugby introduced this dedicated sensory space to ensure that everyone, including individuals with sensory sensitivities, can enjoy events in a comfortable and inclusive environment.

Sarah Webb, CEO of Wooden Spoon, encourages everyone to take part: “National Wooden Spoon Day is a fantastic opportunity for communities to come together and make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage.

“Whether you’re passing a rugby ball, hosting an event, or simply spreading the word, every action helps us continue our mission. Join us on 19th March and be part of something truly special.”

Make Some Noise for Wooden Spoon!

With your help, we can make National Wooden Spoon Day bigger and better than ever. Don’t forget to tag us in your posts and use #WoodenSpoonDay to spread the word.

Follow us on social media:

@WoodenSpoonCharity | @charityspoon | Wooden Spoon Charity |

For more information or to get involved, please visit:

https://woodenspoon.org.uk/national-wooden-spoon-day

The Birth of Rugby in Edinburgh

CITY ART CENTRE: Thursday 29 May 2025 at 2:00pm

Join us for ‘The birth of rugby in Edinburgh’ – A Lecture to celebrate Edinburgh900: City of Leisure.

A view of the action from the first rugby international, Scotland v England, played at Raeburn Place in Edinburgh in 1871.

Book here: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/…/birth-rugby…

The birth of rugby in Edinburgh: how the handling code captivated the city and led to the first international in 1871.

Edinburgh is right at the heart of rugby history, with the world’s first rugby international played at Raeburn Place in 1871, between Scotland and England.

Rugby was the dominant code of football for the city’s schools from the 1850s onwards and Andy Mitchell will detail the series of events that led to the carrying game gaining the upper hand, explaining why young men in Scotland’s capital played rugby football almost exclusively until association football finally made a breakthrough in the 1870s.

The pioneers created a legacy that remains with us today as rugby continues to be a thriving sport at school, club and international levels.

Andy Mitchell is a Scottish sports historian who runs a dedicated sports history website and has written several books including a Who’s Who of Scotland footballers and the story of the first international match.

He was brought up in Edinburgh and when he went to his first football match in 1970 – an Edinburgh derby, no less – he was immediately hooked on the game despite attending a rugby-playing school.

He was fortunate enough to have spent most of his career in the media working in football, as Head of Communications at the Scottish Football Association and as a freelance media officer for UEFA. Now retired, he lives in Portobello and is researching sports history as vigorously as ever.

Edinburgh is 900 Years Old!

In 1124 King David I introduced a new system of local government into Scotland by creating royal burghs as part of his efforts to reform the nation’s economic and political structures.

Edinburgh was one of his first royal burghs, along with Berwick, Dunfermline, Roxburgh and Stirling.

While there is no surviving founding Edinburgh charter, an 1127 Dunfermline Abbey royal charter refers to ‘my burgh of Edinburgh’. In 1128, Canongate Burgh was created for Holyrood Abbey.

After the Reformation, Edinburgh spent considerable effort acquiring the former abbey’s lands over the following 200 years. It acquired Canongate then created a new burgh for South Leith in 1636.

The burghs of Broughton, Calton and Portsburgh were also acquired and run by Edinburgh. This complex system of governance was abolished in 1856 when all burghs under the management of Edinburgh were merged into a single burgh.

In 1833, Portobello and Leith were made independent parliamentary burghs under the Burgh Reform Act. They ran their own affairs until amalgamated into an expanded Edinburgh in 1896 and 1920, respectively. 1975 saw the last expansion of the city’s boundaries, including Queensferry, which had been made a royal burgh in 1636.

Edinburgh has selected 2024 to mark the start of the 900th anniversary of our city, and to tell the story of Edinburgh’s journey through the centuries from the 12th century City of David right up to the 21st century, the City of Diversity.

Our talks at the City Art Centre will celebrate the 10 themes and will span a period of summer 2024 until August 2025.

The Watsonian Football Club’s 150th anniversary celebrated with memorial plaque

On Thursday, 30th January 2025, a commemorative plaque was unveiled at 50 Yeaman Place, near the site where The Watsonian Football Club’s rich history began with its very first game.

On 30th January 1875, The Watsonian Football Club played its inaugural game of rugby union against St George’s at Bainfield, a farm then located at Yeaman Place in Polwarth, Edinburgh. While the game ended in a draw, it laid the foundation for a club that has since achieved remarkable success. Over 150 years, Watsonians has consistently competed at the pinnacle of Scottish rugby, producing national team players across all levels.

The unveiling captured the Watsonians spirit and the community that the club has created over the last 150 years with many members in attendance including: Honorary President, 96-year-old Dennis Carmichael, Men’s 1XV Captain, Neil Irvine-Hess, Women’s 1XV Co-Captain, Freya Walker, Watsonians highest capped international player, Scottish and British & Irish Lions legend, Scott Hastings and two of the youngest members of the Watsonian Warriors and Watsonian Wildcats mini section, Alexander Wright and Amelia Boyle. 

Scott Hastings shared his thoughts on the plaque unveiling and The Watsonian Football Club’s 150th year: “Today was a truly special occasion, standing near the very spot where The Watsonian Football Club played its first game 150 years ago.

“It’s incredible to reflect on how far the club has come, from that first match to becoming such a cornerstone of Scottish rugby. Seeing members of all generations come together – young players, lifelong supporters, and legends of the game – was a really great moment. This plaque is a fitting tribute to our history.”

The unveiling of the plaque marks the start of The Watsonian Football Club’s 150th anniversary celebrations, with further events taking place throughout the year including a gala dinner on 21st November 2025 at the O2 Academy with Sir Ian McGeechan and Sir Chris Hoy as guests of honour.

The club has also released a maroon and white limited-edition jersey to mark the important milestone which features its unique crest and the words, ‘ex corde caritas’, the Latin motto which means “love from the heart”.

Additionally, this year will see the club publishing a 150-year history of Watsonians book in partnership with Peter Burns of Polaris Publishing.

Alistair Hamilton, General Manager at The Watsonian Football Club commented: “The unveiling of the commemorative plaque at Yeaman Place is a proud moment for everyone connected to The Watsonian Football Club.

“It marks the site where our journey began in 1875 and celebrates 150 years of history, tradition, and community. This milestone is not just about looking back but also about bringing together players, members, and supporters – past and present – throughout the year.

“With a host of exciting events planned, including our gala dinner and the release of a commemorative book, we look forward to celebrating the history and bright future of Watsonians.”

2025 is another important chapter in the 150-year history of The Watsonian Football Club. To find out more about The Watsonian Football Club please visit: 

watsoniansrugby.com 

Dedicated Midlothian volunteer honoured at sportscotland COV Awards

A sports volunteer from Midlothian has won the Volunteer of the Year award at the sportscotland Coaching, Officiating and Volunteering (COV) Awards 2024.

Stevie Halliday has been recognised for the time and dedication he has given to rugby in the area, particularly at Dalkeith RFC.

Serving as the Director of Youth Rugby last year, Stevie has transformed Dalkeith RFC’s mini and youth rugby sections. Under his leadership, the club fielded its first under-18 team in over a decade, culminating in Dalkeith RFC’s inaugural appearance in a national final. 

The club’s mini and youth sections have seen remarkable growth under his guidance, now boasting over 300 boys and girls. Thanks to Stevie’s hard work and organisation, Dalkeith RFC consistently fields boys’ teams at under-13, under-14, under-16, and under-18 levels, along with its first girls’ youth teams. 

One of Stevie’s focuses has been providing opportunities for girls graduating from mini rugby to continue playing at Dalkeith RFC. This initiative has been a success with 27 girls now actively participating in youth rugby.

Stevie also coaches the under-18 side, steering them to the National School Bowl Final at Murrayfield, marking the club’s first national final in its history.

Stevie’s support for Dalkeith RFC’s youth players extends beyond coaching. He has organised first aid courses, mental health workshops and encouraged players to take on roles in running the club and coaching. His commitment to Dalkeith RFC is longstanding, having served as a player, Club Captain and President.

Stevie said: “My view is you always gets out of something what you put in. I met my wife at the rugby club, we’ve got two kids who are both involved in the rugby now so that drives me on to make sure there’s a place for them to be.

“It’s been a place that’s been a good environment for me and I want to make sure it stays that way for everyone else.”

Jason Hendrie, First Team Coach at Dalkeith RFC, said: “He’s always pushing everyone at the club to make things better. He’s always wanting the best for the club, if we didn’t have Stevie I don’t know where we’d be. He drives it so much.”

The sportscotland COV Awards celebrates the people who make sport happen in communities across Scotland, who inspire and enhance the lives of others and often commit their own time to help make sport accessible to as many people as possible. 

This year nearly 300 nominations were received covering 34 different sports and all 32 local authorities.

The COV winners were invited to collect their award at a presentation ceremony at Glasgow City Chambers on Thursday 7 November.

Forbes Dunlop, Chief Executive of sportscotland, said: “Every year the Coaching, Officiating and Volunteering Awards give us the opportunity to celebrate the people across the country who have given so much of their time and dedication to Scottish sport and are making such an impact on their sport and their community.

“Across Scotland, there are thousands of people who recognise the impact that sport can have on us all. The people we are celebrating have taken that recognition and ,with a huge amount of hard work, helped to change people’s lives.

“Individuals like Stevie have dedicated a huge amount of their time to helping others realise their sporting potential.”

Gregor Townsend enjoys friendly rivalry with Fijian veteran at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory

The Scottish Rugby coach chatted with Rav Ravutia about the upcoming Scotland V Fiji match at Murrayfield to be played today – Saturday, November 2 with a 5.40pm KO

Scotland international rugby coach Gregor Townsend enjoyed some friendly rivalry as he chatted with a Fijian veteran, whilst launching the Scottish Poppy Appeal 2024.

The rugby legend was visiting Lady’s Haig Poppy Factory in Edinburgh when he was introduced to staff member, Fijian national Rav Ravutia, ahead of his side’s Nations Series opener against Fiji on November 2.

Aswell as discussing the upcoming match, Gregor was interested to hear about Rav’s story and how he came to serve in Scotland and later work for Poppyscotland.

Rav, 51, was first introduced to Scotland after visiting the capital with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Band who were invited to perform in the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 1998.

Upon returning to his homeland, the following year Rav resigned from the Fijian Army after eight and a half years service and flew to Scotland to sign up for the British Army.

Serving from 1999 to 2023, Rav was a member of the Royal Scots and later the Adjutant General Corps. 

After leaving the Army he was a member of the Royal Scots Regimental Association Fijian branch in Edinburgh but found himself unemployed and with a forces disability was unsure where to turn.

With the help of fellow veteran friends, Rav was introduced to Poppyscotland.

Rav said: “Last year I was introduced to the work of Poppyscotland and very quickly was made extremely welcome. That is when I began my new career here as a veteran poppy and wreath maker.

“It is an absolute honour to work for this charity and goes to show just one of the many ways they can help veterans following service.”

Rav continued: “It was great to meet Scotland international coach Mr Townsend as he launched the Poppy Appeal and in particular ahead of Scotland playing my national team Fiji next month. We spoke about my time in the army and of course had some good chat about the rugby. In fact, I asked him to please go soft on Fiji!”

Gregor said: “It was a real privilege to meet the veterans at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory upon launching the Scottish Poppy Appeal, and great to meet Rav and share some friendly rivalry ahead of our Nations opener with Fiji.

“Every year Poppyscotland supports hundreds of veterans and their families, helping them live life fully after service.

“Show them you care, wear a poppy. Your donation can change lives for our Armed Forces community.”

The Scottish Poppy Appeal is Scotland’s biggest fundraising appeal, with more than three million poppies already being distributed around the country.

The money raised from the Appeal has enabled Poppyscotland to help countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces or with struggles adjusting from military to civilian life.People can find out more and support the Scottish Poppy Appeal at www.poppyscotland.org.uk.

Broughton RFC celebrate one hundred years of rugby in North Edinburgh

100 years ago this weekend, a group of young men took to the muddy Wardie Playing Fields for their inaugural outing as Former Pupils of @BroHighOfficial against United Colleges.

FORWARD a century & today celebrates a historic moment with Broughton Men playing Forrester RFC at 3pm.