Scottish Rugby stands united in support with Rainbow Laces

The campaign, which runs until 8 December, is the leading charity for lesbian, gay, bi and trans equality, with the campaign challenging fans to play their part in ensuring LGBT people feel included in sport.

Scotland players Magnus Bradbury and Megan Gaffney were joined by Murray McCallum from Edinburgh and Johnny Matthews representing Glasgow Warriors at BT Murrayfield to ‘lace up’ for the campaign.

Director of Rugby Development, Sheila Begbie, said: “At Scottish Rugby we are really keen to show our support from across the game by wearing Rainbow Laces.

“Our aim is to help highlight the power sport has to bring people together and celebrate LGBT and sport. We want our clubs to be at the heart of their communities to ensure inclusive environments for all.”

The Caledonian Thebans, Scotland’s leading inclusive rugby club who are currently bidding to host the Bingham Cup in 2022, were accompanied by Scottish Rugby staff and players from Broughton and Dunfermline.

Colin Macfarlane, Director of Stonewall Scotland, said: “At a time when society feels increasingly divided, sport has this unique ability to bring people together from all walks of life. That’s why it’s so inspiring to see more and more sports come together each year to support Rainbow Laces.

“While wearing a simple shoelace might seem like a small gesture, for LGBT people it’s a powerful symbol of acceptance.

“The more players, fans, clubs and organisations that stand up for equality, the sooner we reach a place where all LGBT people, from fans to players, are accepted without exception.’

Scotland Women will continue to show their support for the campaign at Scotstoun on Sunday, where they face Japan in their second Autumn Test.

If you or your club would like to get involved in the Rainbow Laces campaign, you can find more information from https://www.stonewall.org.uk