Murrayfield Stadium is to host a tribute night to Bill McLaren, The Voice of Rugby, who died in January.The gates will be open from 5pm, on Thursday 11 March, two nights before the Calcutta Cup match against England. The event will start at 6.30pm, and all are welcome to attend with free admission.  Free commemorative programmes will also be available.The evening tribute, at Bill’s “second home” will see the likes of Scotland’s cap centurion Chris Paterson, Welsh wizard wing Gerald Davies, and other rugby greats and well-wishers attending from all over the world to celebrate and give thanks for the Hawick legend’s genius.The evening will see a large stage erected on the running track in front of the West Stand, with big screens showing pictures and specially-created match footage accompanied by some of Bill’s most evocative commentary.There will also be musical accompaniment from a Welsh male voice choir and Scottish Pipe Bands.BBC presenter Dougie Donnelly will be the MC for the evening, and he will also welcome tributes from former British and Irish Lions captains Gavin Hastings (Scotland) and Bill Beaumont (England).Dougie Donnelly said: “I am honoured to be part of this tribute to a truly worldwide rugby icon.”I have happy memories of working with Bill.  He was the ultimate professional and a true gentleman.”Andy Irvine, former Scotland and British and Irish Lions full-back, who will also add his tribute, said: “He had the most magnificent voice, a great Hawick twang. “He had tremendous experience of the game, and I don’t think people understand or appreciate how dedicated he was to rugby as a whole.”Bill was able to draw in the grannies, aunties and those who would never otherwise watch a game of rugby.”Gordon McKie, Scottish Rugby Chief Executive, said: “Scottish Rugby is privileged to welcome everyone to Murrayfield to pay tribute to Bill McLaren.  I’m sure it will be a memorable evening and it would be great to see a big turnout to remember a truly special Scot.”

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