Hamilton preparing for the biggest game

Giant lock forward Hamilton, who weighs in at nearly 20 stone, joined Edinburgh from Leicester in the summer and revealed that one of the main reasons why he moved north was to prove his worth in the derby match.

Hamilton said: "This fixture is one of the reasons why I joined Edinburgh in the summer; to be involved in the biggest game in Scotland will be an awesome experience."

A record crowd is expected for the opening match of the double-header and Hamilton says the games will be great occasions for the whole Scottish rugby community. Tickets are still available for the Boxing Day derby - priced at £15 for adults, £10 for concessions and £5 for under 18s - and can be purchased by calling the ticket hotline on 0131 346 5180 or by logging onto www.edinburghrugby.org.

Hamilton added: "I was fortunate enough to play in front of some big crowds at Leicester for derby matches, but to be involved in a game of this magnitude will be a great experience.

"I've seen how hard everyone has worked behind the scenes to promote the game.

"The fact everyone can be a part of the event will make it extra special, whether you support Edinburgh, Glasgow or Scotland."

The last time the two teams met at the home of Scottish Rugby for a Magners League fixture, they attracted a tournament home record attendance for Edinburgh (6, 225).

In front of a bumper crowd and the TV cameras, the 26-year-old says he wants to make a positive impression with the Scottish rugby public.

He said: "I've been up here for a few months now and hopefully Scottish rugby fans are starting to see what I can do; both for Edinburgh and for Scotland."

After Edinburgh narrowly lost the David Lloyd 1872 Cup last season, Hamilton is desperate to help the team bring the trophy back to Murrayfield after the second leg at Firhill (2 January, kick off 3pm).

He said: "It would be brilliant to bring the trophy back to the East. But we know it will be tough over the two legs."

The first 300 adults in the President's Suite will be entitled to free mince pies and mulled wine, so supporters are advised to come early and enjoy the pre-match entertainment including action on the big screens.

Supporters are reminded that public transport in Edinburgh will be limited on Boxing Day evening. For more information, log onto www.edinburghrugby.org and www.glasgowwarriors.org

Turnstiles and bars open at 6pm. Entry is via the turnstiles at Roseburn Street, Roseburn Crescent and the North Stand.