Peter Horne retires from playing to coach Ayrshire Bulls

Long-serving Glasgow centre Peter Horne has announced he will be retiring from playing in the new year following his appointment as head coach of Super6 side Ayrshire Bulls.

Since making his debut in 2009, the 32-year-old has represented Warriors 182 times, putting him fourth on the club’s all-time appearance list.

Horne – a one-club man – also won 45 caps for Scotland and was in the squad that competed at the World Cups in 2015 and 2019.

He enjoyed the distinction of playing alongside younger brother George for both club and country.

Horne told Glasgow’s website: “I feel incredibly fortunate to be retiring on my own terms, after a career with both Glasgow and Scotland that I’m immensely proud of.

“Having spent many years playing under some of the very best coaches in the game, I have been inspired to follow in their footsteps and make the move into coaching myself.

“I know I’m so very lucky to have experienced all that I have, and to have done so playing alongside my childhood best friend and my little brother has been a dream come true.

“I have relished every moment of my 13 years and look back on it with only the happiest of memories and great pride.

“Thank you to all who have supported me on my journey so far – I will forever be grateful to each and every one of you. Here’s to the next chapter!”

Glasgow head coach Danny Wilson paid tribute to “a great servant” to the club.

He said: “Having made over 180 appearances for Glasgow in 12 years at the club and representing his country, Pete has achieved a huge amount in the game.

“It’s rare in the modern game that a player spends their whole career at one club and Pete’s passion and commitment to Glasgow Warriors should be celebrated.

“He’s been a key part of our leadership group for a number of years and will be missed by all at the club.

“His attention to detail in his preparation both on and off the pitch is outstanding and recently his work mentoring our younger players and helping ensure the team taking the field are fully prepared has been fantastic.

“Pete has been a great servant to this club and we wish him, his wife Kirsten and their children all the best for the future.”