Townsend, who won 82 caps as a player himself, paid tribute to Paterson, who will start Sunday's RBS 6 Nations game against France at fullback, saying his evasive running and deadly boot have been significant weapons to Scotland over the years.

He said: "More than 62,000 tickets have been sold for Sunday's game, so it'd be great to have a capacity crowd at Murrayfield in tribute to Chris who has been one of Scotland's most consistent performers over the last 11 years.

"He works extremely hard and is a consummate professional. I hope that the Scottish public will show their appreciation by coming out in force on Sunday."

Around 5,000 tickets remain to see Scotland take on France in the RBS 6 Nations Championship on Sunday 7 February at Murrayfield, kick-off 3pm. However, tickets are selling fast.

Tickets can be purchased in person from the Scottish Rugby Ticket Centre, Roseburn Street, Edinburgh, on Friday from 9am to 8pm and on Saturday from 10am to 5pm.

Tickets may also be bought up until midnight on Saturday via the 24-hour hotline on 0844 335 3933 or online via www.scottishrugby.org.

There are no ticket sales on match day.

Those attending Sunday's game are encouraged to take their seats early to observe a minute's silence for the late Bill McLaren.

Supporters are also reminded that car parking is no longer available at Murrayfield Stadium - information on public transport and travel arrangements can be found at www.scottishrugby.org.

ENDS

Scottish Rugby imagery is available via Press Association.

 

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 Stuart Martin
Media Manager
Glasgow Warriors & Scotland 7s
Tel: +44 (0)141 946 9624
Mob: +44 (0)7814 615604
Email: stuart.martin@sru.org.uk
Web: www.glasgowwarriors.org & www.scottishrugby.org