Bo’ness rugby players stepping on for Doddie

Members of the club had been hoping to help the Borders legend’s cause by climbing Ben Nevis in a sponsored fundraiser, but the lockdown restrictions and coronavirus pandemic put paid to their mountain mission.

However, undeterred, they continued their walking plans and mapped out a virtual rugby route – taking in all of the Six Nations home stadium venues over a 3500-mile distance.

Mark MacDonald from the club explained: “We are aiming for £2500 and have raised £1500. We chose the foundation because of its obvious links to rugby and there are 22 of us taking part – a full rugby squad.

“We are just over halfway and on our way back through France from the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, virtually.

“We have received many well wishes from the foundation Zebre Rugby Club and a video from David Sisi the Italian international pro14 player.

“Some have cycled, some have walked or run.

“We had planned to walk up Ben Nevis, however due to Covid we had to postpone, we’re hopeful of that next month if we can but if not we’ll try again next year.

“It started with our ‘Boris hour’ but we’ve added to it as lockdown has eased.”

Earlier this month the Scottish rugby international legend Weir celebrated his 50th birthday and the group recorded an eight-minute video wishing him a happy birthday – and he’s reponded by telling the team he’s looking forward to them reaching virtual Murrayfield in their quest on behalf of his foundation.