Thursday May 21st 2026
Scott Hastings, the Scotland and British & Irish Lions centre, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on the morning of Sunday 17 May
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Stuart Sommerville
Edinburgh’s Lord Provost has led tributes to the city’s sporting heroes.
Provost Robert Aldridge opened this week’s meeting of the full council with condolences to Scottish rugby hero Scott Hastings who died at the weekend.
And he also extended his thanks to players and supporters of Hearts FC for their conduct and performance which took the club’s Scottish Premiership title fight to the final day of the season where they missed out in agonising fashion.
Hastings died in Edinburgh on Sunday after battling cancer first diagnosed in 2022. The 61- year old had battled non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Provost Aldridge told the council: “I am sure the whole chamber would wish us to express our condolences to the family, friends and the colleagues of Scott Hastings.
“He was a truly inspirational rugby player and lately a magnificent charity fund raiser for the My Name is Doddie charity.
“He was indeed a wonderful ambassador for the city.”
Several councillors echoed condolences. A son of the city, Hastings along with his brother Gavin, was part of the last Scotland side to win a Grand Slam when they triumphed in the 1990 Five Nations.
While playing club rugby for Watsonians in Edinburgh, Hastings earned 65 caps and toured twice with the British and Irish Lions in 1989 and 1993.
After ending his rugby career in 1999, Hastings became a well known rugby broadcaster, both as a commentator and pundit.
He was also known for his charity work in aid of mental health, motor neurone disease, and plenty of other causes.
Councillors heard that a Book of Condolence has been opened at George Watson’s College at its Myreside ground.
Councillor Aldridge also expressed thanks to Hearts FC following their successful season which took the Gorgie side to the final day of Scottish Premiership against Celtic with a chance of lifting the title. The Jambos ended up losing 3-1 to the Glasgow side after needing just a single point from the game.
“I want to say a huge thank you to Hearts for a magnificent season. The way the team and fans conducted themselves with dignity and respect demonstrated the very best of Edinburgh as a kind, calm, open and safe capital.
“Hearts have done the city proud.”
Councillors around the chamber applauded.
Tweet Share on Facebook
News
