TRIBUTES have been paid to Scottish rugby legend Hugh McLeod who passed away on Monday evening at the age of 81.

He played for Scotland 40 times between 1954 and 1962, captaining his country and also turning out for the Barbarians and British Lions.

His home team club was Hawick RFC and the prop gained the renowned nickname of the "Hawick Hardman" due to his performances on the field.

He later went on to become president of the club and his death has been greeted with sadness at Mansfield Park. Current Hawick president Rory Bannerman said: "He was the consummate professional and a legend throughout the rugby world.

"He will be a well missed figure cycling up and down the High Street in Hawick where you didn't want to get in his way, just like on the field."