Wales and British & Irish Lions great, Gerald Davies, today expressed his sincere hope that many thousands of rugby supporters will descend on Murrayfield this evening to pay their respects to The Voice of Rugby – Bill McLaren.

All are welcome to attend the special evening and entry is free of charge. Gates will open at 5pm with the tribute starting at 6.30pm. Free commemorative programmes will also be available.

A stage has been erected on the running track in front of the west stand at Bill’s “second home”, and on it, Davies will join the likes of Scotland's cap centurion Chris Paterson and other rugby greats and well-wishers from all over the world to celebrate and give thanks for the Hawick legend's genius.

Speaking exclusively to www.scottishrugby.org, Davies tells of how Bill “conveyed to the whole wide world our love of rugby football”.

He describes Bill as a “benevolent” and “good natured man” whose voice, technique and enjoyment of rugby crossed boundaries.

Having played in numerous games on which Bill had commentated, Davies adds: “We were privileged and honoured to play for our countries and played in some great games, but we were honoured that it was Bill McLaren who told the tale. He was the commentator who made us feel very precious indeed.”