Scotland rugby fans have been hit with a bagpipe ban at the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.
Kiwi officials have reportedly outlawed bagpipes from the nation's stadiums amid fears they could distract Scotland's opponents. In a bid to overturn the decision, Sports Minister Shona Robison has written to the organisers asking them to rethink their stance.
Scotland fan - and keen piper - Matthew Strachan travelled to New Zealand with his bagpipes to support the national side and only learned of the ban when he arrived in the land of the long white cloud.
Mr Strachan, a GP from Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, said: "After spending considerable money getting to New Zealand to support my country I was shocked to hear bagpipes were not allowed in the stadiums.
"I've played the pipes in most of the UK stadiums and also in France during the last World Cup and they have always been gratefully received. Why then after many sporting years have the World Cup organisers decided against having them in stadiums?"
He added: "At least pipers should be allowed to play up to the start of the game and afterwards. What is a touring piper supposed to do with his pipes when refused entry to a stadium? I would not have bought as many tickets to other games had I known, because as a piper, rugby games to me have always included my pipes."
SNP MSP Jim Eadie said: "As the entire rugby world shows its respect for the traditions of the All Blacks and their Haka at the start of every game, it's only fair Scottish fans can showcase Scotland with their bagpipes.
"There are many disappointed fans that have travelled to the other side of the world with their bagpipes only to be told they can't use them in stadiums."
A spokesman for the Scottish Government said: "We are sure this is merely an oversight and the Sports Minister has written to the organisers of the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand to request this position is reversed."
Mr Strachan has made a formal complaint to tournament organisers and written to John Key, the Prime Minister of New Zealand.
