SRU now investigating Alloa RFC president's 'rape-joke'

The SRU are now investigating an incident in which the president of Alloa RFU told a 'rape joke' at an awards night. <i>(Image: Kayleigh Gregory)</i>
The SRU are now investigating an incident in which the president of Alloa RFU told a 'rape joke' at an awards night. (Image: Kayleigh Gregory)
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An incident in which the president of Alloa RFC delivered a 'rape joke' at an awards ceremony is being investigated by the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU).

Last weekend, Alan Stewart spoke for about half an hour at the Musselburgh Rugby Football Club dinner, addressing around 100 people, mostly male.

During his speech, he allegedly told jokes described as “racist, homophobic and sexist” and allegedly ended his speech "with a joke about rape”.

The comments left some women in the audience in tears, and resulted in multiple complaints to the SRU.

The SRU are now investigating an incident in which the president of Alloa RFU told a 'rape joke' at an awards night. (Image: Kayleigh Gregory)

It also resulted in the resignation of James Ferguson, the Musselburgh women’s team coach, who heard about the evening’s events a few days later from players and then resigned from the club on Wednesday.

Today, a spokesperson for the club said: "I can confirm that both the club and the Scottish Rugby Union are reviewing the matter.

"It would not be appropriate to comment in detail while these processes are ongoing. 

"We take any distress or offence caused by the actions or words of a club member very seriously. Creating an inclusive and welcoming environment is central to our values, and once the facts are established, we will consider any appropriate next steps."

Scottish Rugby said: "We strongly condemn the comments reportedly made at the Musselburgh RFC dinner. They are wholly unacceptable and do not reflect the values of our game.

 "We are grateful to those who brought this matter to our attention. Scottish Rugby is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion at every level of the game. There is no place for discriminatory behaviour in our sport, or in wider society.

 "We are currently progressing the matter through our regulatory department."

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