Stars gather for McLaren tribute night

The event at Murrayfield has been arranged to allow stars and fans to remember the man known as the "Voice of Rugby", who died in January at the age of 86.

Doors will open at the stadium from 5pm for the free event, which will be hosted by BBC presenter Dougie Donnelly and feature musical entertainment.

The Scottish Rugby Union decided along with the McLaren family that holding an event at the country's rugby home would be better than a church service, and allow many more people to pay their respects.

The event will also feature speeches from Scotland's most-capped player Chris Paterson, the former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick and England rugby legend Bill Beaumont.

Mr Beaumont said the Hawick man helped him greatly during his transition from the pitch to the commentary box.

"He was and will always be the Voice of Rugby to my generation," he said. "I knew him well and he helped me a great deal when I moved into broadcasting.

"When I was asked there was no hesitation whatsoever to do this, no decision at all, I was honoured.

"I look forward to telling fans from an England perspective just how well-loved he was.

"I remember sitting in the commentary box with him when Scotland won the Grand Slam in 1990 and he was a good winner, very professional, and certainly much more than I would have been."

Clips of McLaren's best commentary moments will also be replayed as part of the event, and other tributes will come from celebrated Scotland players Andy Irvine and Gavin Hastings, Welshman Gerald Davies and Mike Gibson of Ireland.

Mr 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."

A spokesman for the SRU added: "Obviously we are delighted and honoured to host this tribute.

"Like everyone involved with Scottish rugby we were saddened to hear of his passing.

"Bill had an ability to touch people all around the world, not just those who heard him, but players as well."