THE Wee County’s best known rugby stars have called on local clubs to help promote the Scottish game far and wide.

At the home of Scottish rugby at BT Murrayfield, men’s and women’s internationals Grant Gilchrist, Megan Kennedy, both of Clacks, urged clubs up and down the country to think how they could benefit and become ‘Loudest and Proudest’ for Scotland.

This year’s theme comes as Royal Bank of Scotland encourages the whole of Scotland to join the rugby community and cheer on the national side.

With the Guinness Six Nations underway and the Rugby World Cup on the horizon, 2019 is set to be a thrilling year for Scottish Rugby.

This year’s two winning clubs will be awarded the “loudest and proudest package” which will see them receive £1,000 as well as a visit by one of the Scottish game’s biggest personalities on Royal Bank RugbyForce weekend.

The chosen clubs will also receive full event support from Royal Bank of Scotland as they create a truly memorable day which places rugby at the heart of the community.

Eight other ‘Star’ clubs will receive £1,000 funding as well as rugby kit and appearances from Scotland rugby personalities who will be on hand during the weekend to roll up their sleeves and get involved with everything from coaching and development to DIY.

Scotland international and former Alloa RFC player Grant Gilchrist is one of the elite stars supporting the campaign this year and features in a series of short films encouraging clubs across Scotland to sign up to Royal Bank RugbyForce in 2019.

Grant said: “So many professional players take their first steps on a rugby field at a grassroots club. Without the tireless efforts of community clubs across Scotland, we wouldn’t have the talent and love for the game that we have today.

“Supporting your local team is so important. Royal Bank RugbyForce is an excellent initiative and it’s great to see so many local clubs in Scotland receiving the support they need to develop the next generation of Scottish rugby talent”.

Malcolm Buchanan, chairman, Royal Bank of Scotland, Scotland Board, said: “We’re very proud of our continued commitment to rugby in Scotland. The passion for the game remains strong and we’re delighted to be able to play a part in supporting local rugby communities across the country with both financial and practical assistance.”