A TOUCHING tribute has been paid to Gala Rugby “stalwart” Ken Macaulay following his death.

The 67-year-old former Scotland international died on Sunday (October 27) just hours after completing a 1,000-mile charity cycle.

Macaulay, who played more than 300 games for Gala during 13-and-a-half years with the club, celebrated the end of his challenge at Netherdale on Saturday.

A Gala spokesperson said: “We at Gala Rugby are all devastated by the sudden passing of Ken Macaulay at the age of 67, having just completed his epic journey by bicycle round 76 clubs totalling over 1,000 miles to raise money for his four chosen charities - The Murrayfield Injured Players’ Foundation; Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland; Prostate Scotland; and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.

“Ken was with us on Saturday evening at Netherdale at the completion of his journey and he was in great form which makes his sudden passing so difficult to take in and accept. We feel heartbroken for his wife Pat, son Richard and daughter Joanna, and all his many good friends.

“Earlier this year Ken joined three other Gala players - Gary Isaac, Mark Moncrieff and George Telfer - for a Celebration Dinner at Netherdale in recognition of their retrospective international caps.

“Ken, Gary, Mark and George joined the other 50 Gala internationalists whose photos are displayed in the Centenary Lounge at Gala Rugby Football Club.

“Ken joined Gala RFC in 1976 after moving north to study at the Scottish College of Textiles in Galashiels, following in the footsteps of his father who had also played for the club whilst a student. He became a stalwart of the club and played 317 times over almost 14 seasons, including a season as captain in 1988-89.

“Following a couple of seasons with Heriot’s after leaving Gala, Ken joined the North Berwick club with whom he had a long association of over 20 years, playing, coaching and fulfilling many roles at the club including director of rugby. His huge contribution to the game over such a long period was recognised by presentation of the SRU Spirit of Rugby Award in 2013.

“However, his greatest recognition came with the award of his retrospective cap with over 70 others and was a very proud moment for him and his family.

“As Ken has stated, this was what got him thinking that he would like to give something back, as a thank you for being included in this process, but also as a token of appreciation for everything that rugby has given him over many years.

“Gala Rugby extends its sincere condolences to Ken’s wife, Pat, son Richard, daughter Joanna and their families.”

To donate to Macaulay's fundraiser, visit: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/kens-retrospective-challenge