As rugby fans gear up for round 3 of the Guinness Six Nations, Scottish rugby legend Scott Hastings has taken time out to present a cheque to St Columba’s Hospice Care.

18 months ago, Scott, alongside fellow members of Watsonians Football Club and Kelso Rugby Club, took on a sponsored walk from Edinburgh to Kelso, raising an incredible £16,500.00 in memory of their dear friend Clive Millar who played for both clubs. It was agreed that the funds raised should be split between the Margaret Kerr unit at the Borders General Hospital and St Columba’s Hospice Care.

Scott, Clive and their close friend Gavin Hagart, attended George Watson’s College together, sharing a love of rugby and forming a lifelong bond. Clive sadly passed away whilst attending the Margaret Kerr unit in 2022 after battling liver cancer, and just four months later, Gavin also lost his life to brain cancer. To honour their memory, former teammates and friends from both clubs organised a 52-mile walk from the Watsonian Football Club in Edinburgh to Kelso Rugby Club.

Speaking about the fundraiser, Scott Hastings, said: “This walk was a special way to remember Clive and Gavin. Whilst Clive was treated in the Borders, Gavin was supported by St Columba’s Hospice Care. Losing two close friends in such a short space of time was heartbreaking, but the hospice provides incredible support to so many families going through similar experiences. We’re proud to contribute to their vital work, and I’d like to thank everyone who donated and supported us along the way.”

The funds raised will go directly towards providing specialist palliative and end-of-life care, ensuring that patients and families receive the support, dignity, and comfort they deserve.

Scott attended the hospice to present the cheque with Gavin’s wife Christine Hagart. Reflecting on the strong bond the men shared, Christine, said: “It means so much to see the Watsonians and Kelso communities come together to honor Gavin and Clive in such a meaningful way. This has been a wonderful reminder that the rugby family extends well beyond the pitch, and I know they would both be so proud.

“The Hospice was an incredible support to Gavin and our family through a very difficult time. They compassionately guided and provided what we needed to help Gavin, and to navigate our own journey. This continued after he died through counselling and much more. It is a huge comfort to know that this money will allow others to access this care which meant so much to us. Our family will always be grateful for friends and their kindness and fundraising. And for choosing to support St Columba’s Hospice Care, whom are very deserving.”

Jackie Stone, CEO at St Columba’s Hospice Care, said: We’re incredibly grateful to Scott and the Watsonian and Kelso teams for their dedication and generosity. Their fundraising efforts will have a direct impact on the care we provide, helping us support patients and their families during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Community support like this is vital in ensuring we can continue to offer specialist palliative care across Edinburgh and the Lothians.”

Just as the Six Nations captures the hearts of rugby fans across the county, this incredible show of teamwork and determination highlights the strong sense of community within the sport. Scott and his teammates have shown that the spirit of rugby extends well beyond the game, making a lasting difference to those in need.