A MINUTE’S applause has been held at Murrayfield in memory of former Gala stalwart Ken Macaulay.

The 67-year-old – who received a retrospective cap for his country – died the day after completing a 1,000-mile cycle for charity last month.

Respects were paid to Macaulay ahead of Scotland’s clash with Fiji on Saturday (November 2).

His fundraiser associated with his cycling challenge – which will benefit the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation; the Murrayfield Injured Players’ Foundation; Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland; and Prostate Scotland – has raised more than £19,000.

Macaulay set out to generate just shy of £5,000 worth of donations by visiting the 76 Scottish clubs he played against during his league career spanning 30 seasons.

He completed his three-week cycle at Netherdale – the home of the side for which he played more than 300 games for during a 13-and-a-half year stay – on Saturday, October 26.

His death the following day was described by his family as a “huge shock”.

A Gala spokesperson said: "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."

To donate, go to: donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/kens-retrospective-challenge