TWO hard working and dedicated volunteers at Peebles Rugby Club were given an official thank you last Saturday when they took to the pitch ahead of the Scotland v South Africa match at Murrayfield.

Donald Swanson and Norman Elder represented the club as part of the fabric of the nation celebrations, both men proudly displayed their own club colours as they joined up with volunteers from other clubs across Scotland to hoist a giant Scotland jersey aloft.

The devoted duo spend countless hours at the club helping out in various capacities.

Norman helps set up the pitch before matches, helps dismantle after games and can be seen at the gate taking money from spectators. He is seen as one of those people that every club needs, he is a grafter and someone who gets things done.

Norman said: "I have been to Murrayfield a few times but never been on to the pitch. It certainly was a day to remember it was a real honour." While Norman never actually played for Peebles, he has simply been there to help out. Doing things for the love of the club, and the love of the town.

Donald was lucky enough to have been invited to Murrayfield two years ago to represent Peebles. On that day Scotland beat Ireland. Donald has performed virtually every role possible at Peebles since he first joined the club in the 1940s. He said: "I have done various jobs at the club from being Secretary in 1948, to Treasurer, committee man, club captain and I am now Honorary President. I have just enjoyed being part of the club over all these years. It keeps me in touch with so many people and I just really enjoy the whole set up."