Scotland Players To Attend Bill Mclaren Tribute Night

Members of the Scotland squad are to attend a tribute night for the Voice of Rugby Bill McLaren.The special evening will be held at Murrayfield Stadium on Thursday – two days before the Calcutta Cup match – and will feature contributions from some of the biggest stars in rugby honouring his special place in the game.  Scotland centre Nick De Luca, who was named today in the starting XV for Saturday’s match, said: “I grew up listening to Bill and I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to reflect on the joy he brought to so many people and join the celebration for the manner in which he brought rugby to life.”Thursday will be a memorable day and it would be fitting for Bill’s family and friends if as many people as possible attend the tribute.”McLaren, died in January aged 86, and his family are keen that as many people as possible can attend the celebration of his life.Supporters are welcome to the stadium from 5pm – admission is free – and are being encouraged to arrive early. The tribute itself will begin at 6.30pm.The evening will be hosted by Dougie Donnelly and will reflect on Bill’s 50 year broadcasting career and so many of his passions, with many opportunities to savour again magic moments of action enlivened by Bill’s commentary.The Hawick, Scotland and British Lions quartet, Hugh McLeod, Colin Deans, Jim Renwick and Tony Stanger will be among the speakers. Other tributes will come from celebrated British Lions players, Andy Irvine and Gavin Hastings (both Scotland), Bill Beaumont (England), Gerald Davies (Wales) and Mike Gibson (Ireland).Scotland’s most capped player, Chris Paterson, and the former New Zealand All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick will add their appreciation. In addition there will be musical entertainment from massed pipes and drums and the Morriston Orpheus Choir.