GLASGOW University's rugby clubs have "unreservedly apologised" to guests at an anniversary event after invited speakers made "appalling" and 'sexist' and 'racist' comments.
University bosses have also leant their backing to Glasgow University Women's Rugby Football Club and Glasgow University Men's Rugby Football Club after the dinner.
It is understood that speakers at a 150th Anniversary Rugby Club Dinner, organised to celebrate the milestone for rugby at the university, were heckled following certain remarks.
And both clubs have moved quickly to condemn what was said.
A joint statement reads: "We would like to unreservedly apologise to those who attended the 150th Anniversary Rugby Club Dinner on Saturday, November 16 and who may have been offended by some of the speeches.
"As rugby clubs we were shocked and appalled at elements of the content which in no way reflect our values or beliefs.
"We have reached out to offer a personal apology to some of the top table guests and have made arrangements for an Extraordinary General Meeting to be held as soon as possible to discuss Saturday’s event and the behaviour of certain individuals.
A statement from Glasgow University Men and Women's Rugby clubs. @UofGlasgow pic.twitter.com/kBuJIju8Z3
— UofG Sport (@UofGSport) November 19, 2019
"To repeat, the views that were expressed - regardless of whether it was an attempt at humour - have no place in our clubs, our sports department or our university.
"Saturday should have been about celebrating a great anniversary and marking the progress that has been made in both the men’s and women’s game.
"We are extremely disappointed and will not allow outdated views and attitudes within our clubs which are open and welcoming to all students of Glasgow University."
Among those invited to the dinner were former Scottish rugby union player Roger Baird, along with Dr Bobby Low, described as "Glasgow's best-loved obstetrician" and "Scotland’s grandfather of fertility."
A statement posted on the university's official Twitter page reads: "We were extremely disappointed and saddened to hear about some elements of the event.
"These in no way reflect the values or beliefs of the sports clubs, or the University.
"We are proud to be an inclusive and welcoming organisation."
We wholeheartedly support the @GUSAWomensRugby and @GUSAMensRugby statement below regarding the 150th rugby club anniversary dinner on Saturday evening. We were extremely disappointed and saddened to hear about some elements of the event. 1/2 https://t.co/0wR7yqNCiY
— University of Glasgow (@UofGlasgow) November 19, 2019
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