Border players 'an inspiration' says First Minister

David Knox • Published 28 Jul 2009 14:28

BORDERS rugby has been passed a £10,000 boost by Alex Salmond.

The First Minister was joined by Sports Minister Shona Robison for a visit to the Greenyards on Monday.

And during his tour of the home of sevens he unveiled plans to provide the cash to enhance Scottish Borders Council's grass roots rugby programme.

Mr Salmond told the Border Telegraph: "Rugby is a key part of our national sporting heritage, not least in the Scottish Borders where the towns' names are synonymous worldwide with the game.

"We are committed to supporting the work national sporting agencies and local authorities to develop the game, both as an activity and a spectacle."

Dozens of youngsters joined international stars Chris Paterson and Mark Robertson for a coaching session on the Greenyards pitch.

Mr Salmond added: "Players such as Chris and Mark are an inspiration to youngsters across Scotland and I'm delighted to see the enthusiasm of those taking part in the coaching session and to announce further funding to support the game's development locally."

The £10,000 was made available from the Cashback for Communities initiative.

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This article appeared in Border Telegraph 29 Jul 09

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