Bill McLaren's study recreated at Murrayfield

A man in a blue jumper and brown trousers sits on a chair among a pile of books, pictures and clippings and notesImage source, Bill McLaren Foundation
Image caption,

Bill McLaren's study could seem an "absolute guddle" to outsiders

  • Published

The "chaotic" study where the man dubbed "the voice of rugby" carried out his research has been recreated at Murrayfield.

The Bill McLaren Foundation (BLF) put together the showcase of his vast collection of books, videos and clippings.

Initially exhibited in the Borders earlier this year, the study has now found a new home at the famous Edinburgh stadium where he commentated on countless occasions.

His daughter Linda Lawson said she was delighted at the recreation of the study which she hoped would be a "great addition" to stadium tours.

Image source, Scottish Rugby
Image caption,

Linda Lawson, right, pictured with husband Alan and tour guide Laura Tinch said she was delighted to see the study recreated at Murrayfield

Historians in his home town of Hawick worked through thousands of items to recreate his research room.

It was where his matchday preparations took place throughout his 50-year career.

Now visitors to Murrayfield will be able to get a glimpse of how he got ready for his inimitable commentaries.

Ms Lawson said her father's research centre could appear confusing to an outsider.

Image caption,

Bill McLaren was renowned for his meticulous preparation ahead of matches

"From a family's point of view, we realise that dad’s study was an absolute guddle," she said.

"He knew where everything was, we were hardly allowed in.

"Anyone who comes will see a look of chaos but it was a really important part of his method of working and his preparation for commentary."

She said they were grateful to Scottish Rugby for putting on the display which she hoped would give visitors "a bit of a chuckle".

Murray Watson, who created the office on behalf of the BLF, said: "Bill McLaren became one of the most beloved voices in rugby broadcasting.

"It's only fitting to share his story with a new generation of rugby fans, as well as those who cherished his commentary from 1952 to 2002."

The original exhibition in the Borders welcomed thousands of visitors and has also been part of an online lesson for hundreds of primary school pupils.

Laura Tinch, lead on the Scottish Rugby stadium tours and heritage collection, said they were thrilled to let visitors "step into Bill's world".

"His legacy already features prominently in our Bill McLaren media gantry, but this new addition offers an even deeper insight into why he remains a celebrated name in rugby history," she added.

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