Rangers legend Gordon Smith has urged supporters to dig deep this Sunday and donate to Veterans charity Erskine during their Premiership clash with Hearts.

Volunteers and fundraisers from Scotland’s largest Veterans charity will be out in force at Ibrox as part of a fundraising partnership with Erskine and Rangers FC.

Rangers TV will be broadcasting the match between the league leaders and Robbie Neilson’s side as Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s men look to maintain their spot at the top of the table.

Former Gers striker Smith, President of the Rangers Supporters Erskine Appeal, has tirelessly backed the charity since taking the role last year. And he has called for fans to follow his lead and make sure the club’s rich tradition of supporting Erskine continues.

Gordon Smith 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.”

The money raised will help transform the lives of nearly 1,000 ex-servicemen, women and their families in Erskine’s care. Veterans living in Scotland can receive support across the charity’s network of four care homes and Veterans Village – made up of 44 cottages, The Erskine Reid Macewen Activity Centre, five assisted living apartments, and 24 Transitional Supported Accommodation Apartments.

The RSEA’s fundraising has already raised over £1 million for Erskine, since being launched by Rangers supporter Tom Clark in 2007. The group have since contributed to countless projects for Erskine Veterans, including a Sporting Memories room, Reminiscence room, Namaste room and Bridge Activities room.

On their way to the £1 million milestone, RSEA also aided the crucial purchase of lifting aids and an assisted bath, refurbishment of the physiotherapy department in The Erskine Home, weekly aromatherapy sessions; the Centenary Garden and pathway, the Playlist for Life music project, weekly music therapy sessions, and most recently a hybrid vehicle.

Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, Erskine 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.”

Follow Erskine on Facebook www.facebook.com/ErskineVeteransCharity or twitter @ErskineCharity or  listen to Erskine Veterans Radio at Erskine.org.uk/radio