THREE former Rangers players have given their support to a campaign to end homophobic bullying,

Gary McSwegan, Bobby Russell and Dougie Bell are all backing calls for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) issues to be taught in schools.

The trio are backing the Time For Inclusive Education m(TIE) campaign, which works to promote equality and banish homophobia in the classroom.

Gary said: “As someone who now works in a care home, I know that LGBTI young people often feel isolated and excluded.

"School should be the best time of a young person’s life, but this often isn’t the case if they identify as LGBTI - and that isn’t good enough.

Bobby added: " I am happy to support TIE, because all young people should feel free to be who they are without fear of bullying.

“Homophobia is unacceptable, but sadly it is still a reality for young people in Scotland’s schools. It is time to stamp out prejudice, and that can be achieved if we educate our kids about LGBTI issues"

The Scottish Government recently launched a joint working-group with TIE and other stakeholders, which has been tasked with making recommendations to Ministers as to how the group's proposals can be implemented.

Dougie, who has previously spoken against homophobic bullying, emphasised that he hopes Ministers will "waste no time" in taking forward TIE's calls.

He said: “I am keen to reaffirm my support for TIE, particularly as I am aware that they are now working with the Scottish Government to bring forward their proposals for LGBTI issues to be taught in schools.

"Homophobia remains a problem in many schools across the country, and I am eager to see LGBTI inclusive education in all schools - as it would transform the lives of LGBTI young people. I hope that the Scottish Government will waste no time in implementing TIE’s proposals as they are very much needed.”

The campaign pledge, and all proposals, can be viewed at: www.tiepledge.co.uk