Jim ‘Basher’ Inglis dies aged 87

Jim and Mary Inglis with their Spirit of Rugby award

One of Selkirk Rugby’s greatest ever servants died on Friday at the age of 87.

Jim ‘Basher’ Inglis was one of the most popular and well-known characters on the Borders Rugby scene, having been attached to Selkirk RFC for practically all his life.

It was once said that if doctorates were given out for playing for the jersey, then Jim would have so many letters after his name that he would have to double the size of his letter box to get the mail through.

For this is one area he excelled in. Having first donned his beloved navy Selkirk RFC shirt in 1945 and later the same colours for Scotland 2nd XV, before receiving a full cap in 1952 against the Auld Enemy at Murrayfield, Jim understood what a difference pride in a shirt could make to the final result.

Scottish team at training session at Goldenacre prior to English International 1952. Jim 'Basher' Inglis is fifth from left in back row.

A Selkirk supporter through and through, Jim spent the morning of his big match appearance watching his home club beat Melville College in the capital.

The talented Prop was also one of the legendary front row of the South Of Scotland against South Africa, also in 1952.

Jim and wife Mary completed 60 years of marriage this year, and the two of them received the prestigious “Spirit Of Rugby” award from Scottish Rugby to mark a lifetime of achievement in rugby. Jim was a past President of the Border League and Selkirk RFC and in later years enjoyed his role as referees secretary.

A true gentleman, Jim will be greatly missed. Condolences to Mary, their three daughters, grand children and wide circle of family and friends.