The two sides have developed a healthy rivalry over the past decade, with both Districts remaining active at senior level on an ad hoc basis and playing each other three times – in 2016 and 2017 and in last year’s final.

In a joint statement, they said: “Following a conversation between the two District committees, we collectively felt that playing for an annual Cup would be a great way to generate additional significance to the fixture as well as to recognise and commemorate the impact that Nairn had on rugby in each District.

“His story of traveling down to train and play for Gala from his home in Inverness three times per week has become the stuff of legend and exemplifies the commitment often required of players from Scotland’s more rural and outlying communities to pursue their rugby ambitions.”

Caledonia Reds and The South will play for the Nairn MacEwan Cup in the final match of this year’s Inter-District Championship at Highland’s Canal Park on Saturday 6 April.

Members of Nairn’s family are set to be there to present the trophy, as will legendary Highland and North & Midlands coach Colin Baillie MBE, who will say a few words during the pre-match hospitality.

Tickets can be purchased here.

Photo credit: Bryan Robertson