Hawick rugby players happy to be caught napping for worthy cause

Youngsters involved in the Scottish Government-funded school of rugby based at Hawick High are leading an effort next month to raise money for a food-bank in the town. Photo: Bill McBurnie

Any self-respecting rugby player would usually take umbrage if accused of being caught napping, but that’s about to change, albeit for one night only.

Youngsters aspiring to follow in the footsteps of Scotland stars from the town such as Stuart Hogg, Rory Sutherland and Darcy Graham are pitching in for a charity effort intended to provide more than food for thought on Friday, March 12.

They’re taking part in a sleepout being lined up by the organisers of the Scottish Government-funded school of rugby based at Hawick High and the town’s rugby club in aid of a community food-bank initiative intended to help needy folk facing even greater hardship than previously because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Due to Scottish Government restrictions on movement and mingling to curb the spread of Covid-19, that sleepout won’t involve any actual sleeping out and will instead settle for participants slumbering somewhere other than their usual beds, such as in baths, on sofas, in tents in gardens or sheds or even just in sleeping bags on sitting room floors.

Though organised by the school of rugby, it’s open to all, not just those interested in the sport.

Proceeds will go to Hawick’s Salvation Army operation to help fund the food-bank programme it’s been running from its Croft Road base for just short of a year.

A provisional target of £500 has been set by the event’s organisers.

A spokesperson for the school of rugby, funded by Holyrood’s cashback for communities fund, said: “Players and anyone else who wants to help a great cause can have a sleepout in their home.

“Sleep somewhere in your house, just not in a bed. Why not camp in the living room? Maybe sleeping in the bath takes your fancy.

“All funds go towards the Salvation Army in Hawick helping to support our local community.

“The Salvation Army in Hawick has been running a food-bank for a number of years in Hawick and, in recent times, it has been vital in supporting the local community as the full effects of the pandemic were unfolding and more and more people were needing support.

“Since the beginning of lockdown one in March 2020, the Salvation Army has provided 462 food parcels valued at in excess of £23,100 to the people of Hawick and its surrounding communities.

“This number continues to grow each day as poverty affects those from all corners of the community.

“All donations will be welcome, so please get involved.”

To donate, go to gf.me/u/zibrpf

To take part, register at http://bit.ly/3ak5LUv

The spokesperson added: “The event aims to raise some much-needed funds for the food-bank and to support its ongoing work within Hawick.

“Additionally, the event will allow players involved within the school of rugby programme from Hawick High School and Hawick Youth Rugby Club to deliver and be part of an event that contributes positively towards their local community.

“If you have a shed, garage, tent, bath or even if you make a den in your living room, please help support the players, coaches, volunteers and development officers by taking part in this community-wide event and supporting fundraising efforts so that a local charity can continue its much-needed, amazing work for Hawick.”