A north-east rugby enthusiast will be representing his country in France later this month thanks to the support of Banchory-based Leys Estate Group. 

Finlay Williamson, from Banchory, has been selected as part of the Scotland squad travelling to Vichy in France for this year’s Junior European Touch Rugby Championships.  

He will represent Scotland in the Mixed Under 18 Category at the Championships which take place between 16th – 18th August.  

Finlay first started playing rugby with Deeside RFC in Banchory before following in his father’s footsteps and taking up Touch Rugby. His father, Robin Williamson, has also represented Scotland and currently plays in the Over 45s category.  

Finlay, who is one of a handful of players making the trip from the north-east, said: “This is the first time I have been given the chance to represent Scotland, something I feel very proud to do. Following my selection I have been training throughout the summer to ensure I am ready to give 100% to the team.  

“I’ve been able to make the most of this fantastic opportunity thanks to the support of my family and the sponsorship from Leys Estate Group. I’m looking forward to meeting the rest of the squad and learning from those who have already experienced playing at the Championships. 

“My aim is to carry on with Touch while I am studying at University and I hope that this will be the first of many opportunities to represent Scotland. “ 

David Smart, Leys Estate Group Chief Executive, said: “ We are delighted to have been able to support Finlay in his first Touch Scotland call-up and look forward to following his progress at the Championships. 

“As Leys Estate Group is also one of the organisations which has a long association with Deeside RFC, we are delighted to be in a position to support a player who has benefited from the guidance of the coaches at the Club during their rugby journey, as Finlay has.” 

Finlay dropped in to the Leys Estate Group stand at Banchory Show to thank the team for their support.

The European Championship will feature teams from throughout Europe up to Under 21 level and will follow on from the World Cup held in Nottingham earlier on this year.