Haddington Rugby Club welcomed more than 500 visitors last Saturday afternoon as it held its RBS RugbyForce day – with a Scotland legend among those attending.

The day was put on to attract potential new members to the club, and saw Scotland hero Chris Paterson spend the afternoon entertaining youngsters at Neilson Park, Paterson, who won 109 caps before retiring after the 2011 Rugby World Cup, took part in a kicking competition and a touch rugby match, while also posing for pictures.

And he praised the efforts of all those at the club for organising a successful event.

He told the Courier: “It’s been a great day, I’ve been involved with these days for a few years and there’s a buzz at all these clubs – it kick starts the season.

“There was a really good mix of events and it’s been a cracking day.” And the 37-year-old, who has worked as an ambassador for Scottish Rugby since hanging up his boots, hopes that the events can attract more players back to their local clubs.

“It’s a lot of fun and anyone who’s come along today for the first time will have had a great welcome from adults and kids and hopefully they’ve enjoyed it. We want as wide a base as we can at the grassroots level and things like these can only help.” The former Gala RFC player, who spent his professional career with Edinburgh Rugby, and for one season with Gloucester, praised the facilities on offer at Neilson Park.

“Haddington had a disappointing season last year but they will move forward and I’ve been really impressed by the number of good young players that are here,” he said.

“I know it was only touch rugby but there’s a bravery and a courage that should mean they have a successful season.

“I played here as a kid and I’ve been here a lot and it’s just a great set-up with the clubhouse overlooking the pitch - it’s a great place to come.” Steve Wright, Haddington committee member, was delighted with how the day went.

He said: “We started planning this a couple of months ago and wanted a day that brought all parts of our club closer together and closer to the community to show we are welcoming to everyone.

“The members worked together with pupils from Knox Academy to deliver a great day out for all ages.

“Feedback has been fantastic from everyone attending and hopefully that will help grow spectators and players of all ages for our club in the coming season.” Meanwhile, Ross High RFC held a ‘reds vs blues’ game for RugbyForce day, while work was also carried out at the clubhouse.