Former Kelso and Scotland star John Jeffrey appointed as board chairman by Scottish Rugby

The former Scotland international, capped 40 times between 1984 and 1991, had been chairing the board on an interim basis since May, replacing Colin Grassie, but has now been given that role for a three-year term due to end in July 2023.

The Kelso-born 61-year-old, a farmer by trade, is also a World Rugby executive committee member and chairman of the Six Nations tournament’s council.

Former Kelso player Jeffrey, now a justice of the peace in the Borders too, said: “It’s been a very busy six months since I took on the interim chair role and it gave me a real insight into the work being done at all levels of the game in Scotland, and especially by the board, to tackle the challenges presented by covid-19 whilst evolving and moving the organisation forward.

“I am passionate about the game in Scotland, and I am proud to be given the unanimous backing of the board to extend my term as a non-executive director and chairman.

“I am looking forward to working closely with Scottish Rugby president Ian Barr, the board and council and all our stakeholders to drive the sport forward.”

Barr added: “I am delighted that JJ has been approved by the board as chairman. I could not think of a better person to chair Scottish Rugby at this important time.

“I very much look forward to working closely with him, and together we plan to deepen our dialogue and engagement with our member clubs in the weeks and months ahead.

“JJ has been a real positive force since his appointment as interim chair back in May and we quickly realised we had an excellent, knowledgeable and highly-respected rugby man who could take on the role permanently.”

Jeffrey has been a co-opted member of Scottish Rugby’s council for the last 10 years and that membershiphas now been extended until 2023 as well.