A RANGERS legend is encouraging fans to donate to a veterans' charity at this weekend's game against Hearts.
Former striker Gordon Smith is backing the Erskine Veterans charity who will have volunteers at Ibrox this Sunday collecting funds.
Gordon has been President of the Rangers Supporters Erskine Appeal (RSEA) since last year.
He said: "Rangers fans have continued to show incredible generosity towards our Armed Forces heroes, since Erskine's conception in 1916.
"I am delighted that the amazing work they do for Veterans in Scotland is being recognised by this special event at Ibrox on Sunday, and I am honoured to support our Erskine Veterans in any way I can - now and in the years to come.”
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The funds will help nearly 1000 ex-servicemen, women and their families receive support across the charity’s network of four care homes and Veterans Village.
The Village is made up of 44 cottages, The Erskine Reid Macewen Activity Centre, five assisted living apartments, and 24 Transitional Supported Accommodation Apartments.
Since its launch by Rangers fan Tom Clark in 2007, the RSEA fundraising has already raised over £1 million for Erskine.
These funds have contributed to a Sporting Memories room, Reminiscence room, Namaste room and Bridge Activities room.
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The fans' efforts have also enabled the purchase of lifting aids and an assisted bath in the Erskine Home, as well as the refurbishment of the physiotherapy department, weekly aromatherapy sessions, the Centenary Garden and pathway, the Playlist for Life music project, weekly music therapy sessions, and a hybrid vehicle.
Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, Erskine's Chief Executive, said: “Everybody at Erskine is really looking forward to Sunday’s match between Rangers and Hearts and we are sure it will be a fantastic spectacle for supporters of both sides.
"We are extremely grateful to Rangers for allowing us the opportunity to fundraise on the day and any money raised will provide a massive boost to Veterans in Scotland.”
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