Former rugby cap charged with rape

A FORMER Scottish international rugby player has appeared in court on a rape charge.

Norman Pender, 64, from Hawick, is also accused of indecent assault and lewd, indecent and libidinous practices and behaviour.

He made no plea or declaration during a private appearance at Jedburgh Sheriff Court yesterday.

The case was continued for further examination and he was released on bail.

A spokesman for the Crown Office said his next court appearance had yet to be confirmed.

Pender was capped four times for Scotland in the late 1970s and played club rugby with Hawick.

He also served as a Scottish Liberal Democrat councillor on Scottish Borders Council between 1998 and 2003.