Many happy returns for Scotland ace Finn
Rugby ace cuts ribbon at sports club revamp
Finn Russell has revealed his joy at returning to his home town of Bridge of Allan to open the newly refurbished Sports Club Pavilion.
The 29-times capped Scotland rugby ace cut the red ribbon in front of a packed clubhouse to signify the official opening of the five-figure refurb.
Afterwards Finn was given a “grilling” by local crime author Bert Mitchell, the squash convener at Minewood, on his life and times as the capacity crowd looked on enthralled by the Scotland star’s insightful and expansive answers.
Finn said: “I was really chuffed to be invited back to open the refurb.
“When I was younger I spent many happy days playing squash and tennis up at Minewood with friends like Stef Yarrow and it is great to see how much investment has been poured into the clubhouse to bring it bang up to date in terms of the modern facilities that are required at a top sports club.
“That is certainly what Bridge of Allan Sports Club is now. On top of that it was great to catch up with some old faces and friends I haven’t had a chat with in a few years.
“It was a pleasure to mingle with the members and I hope they enjoyed my chat with Bert and found my thoughts of interest.”
The modest rugby maverick also took the time to field a string of questions invited from the floor and Finn stayed to sign autographs for a string of youngsters who had come along to meet him.
He was keen to thank club president Walter McAllister for the invite and added: “It really was an honour to be asked by Walter to cut the ribbon.
“It did leave me shaking my head in reflection at all the times I spent out on the courts as a kid and then coming back for the opening.
“The members were friendly and welcoming and there was just a good buzz about the place.”
The club president said: “It was a big night for the club and Finn’s presence and friendly disposition made it a fantastic one.
“I’d like to record my grateful thanks to Finn for his time and company in helping us celebrate a wee piece of sports club history. Everyone at Bridge of Allan wishes Finn all the very best for the new season with Glasgow and Scotland.
“I’d also like to thank our members who helped organise a superb buffet. Really the evening couldn’t have gone better.”