Scottish borders councillors pledge support for Rugby museum in Bill McLaren memory
Councillors on Scottish Borders Council have pledged their unanimous support for plans to build a ground-breaking Museum of World Rugby in legendary BBC commentator Bill McLaren's memory in his home town of Hawick.
The authority has agreed to help find a suitable location for the centre as well as offer advice and support.
The main body behind the £4 million project is the Bill McLaren Foundation set up after the his death in January last year. McLaren was recognised across the globe as the “voice of rugby”.
The council believes the proposed museum could be a "fantastic new tourist attraction".
BBC Scotland has granted access to its archive of matches on which he commentated over half a century.
The aim is that the museum will tell the story of the sport using McLaren’s distinctive voice as much as possible. And it could be up and running within the next three years.
A BBC Scotland website report explained:“The BMF hopes to rise the funding required via major financial backers, gifts, donations and sponsorship. It also aims to secure valuable support from the Hawick community and get public input on potential locations for the facility.”
The charitable foundation aims to support the development of rugby and its values, and recognise McLaren’s contribution to the game.
Meanwhile, progress is being made on plans for a £15,000 sculpture of McLaren in Hawick.
The bronze bust, sitting on a cairn, is planned to be situated in the town's Wilton Park and will feature the commentator looking up at his Buccleuch Road home.
Hawick Community Council is behind the project and is appealing for public help to finance the permanent memorial.