That the Parliament congratulates the South of Scotland and Edinburgh rugby teams on the launch of the Abbotsford Claret Jug, which is a new trophy connecting modern rugby with its historical roots in the Scottish Borders; notes that the trophy, which was commissioned by the Faculty of Advocates Abbotsford Collection Trust, was awarded for the first time to the winner of the Inter District Championship match at Hawick’s Mansfield Park on 7 November 2025; recognises the significance of the trophy in celebrating Scotland’s rugby heritage, linking the sport to the historic Carterhaugh Ba’ Game organised by Sir Walter Scott and the Duke of Buccleuch in 1815; acknowledges the contributions of the legends of South and Edinburgh rugby, including Keith Robertson and Gavin Hastings, in promoting the history and spirit of the game, and the symbolic engraving of the word “Desdichado” on the jug as a reflection of courage, skill and character; believes that this initiative fosters continuity between Scotland’s rich cultural and sporting heritage and contemporary rugby, promoting values of honour, sportsmanship, team spirit and community engagement; congratulates both teams on the inaugural contest for the Abbotsford Claret Jug, and commends all those involved in linking the past and present of Scottish rugby.
Supported by:
Colin Beattie, Miles Briggs, Tim Eagle, Annabelle Ewing, Murdo Fraser, Meghan Gallacher, Dr Pam Gosal MBE, Dr Sandesh Gulhane, Craig Hoy, Liam Kerr, Bill Kidd, Edward Mountain, Douglas Ross, Alexander Stewart, Paul Sweeney, Annie Wells, Tess White, Brian Whittle