police officer rugby union player
He played club rugby for Hawick Reconstruction Finance Corporation. He made his international rugby debut on 6 June 1987 in the quarter-finals of the 1987 Rugby World Cup against New Zealand at Christchurch. He went on the 1988 tour of Zimbabwe, although full caps were not awarded. He was also on the 1990 tour of New Zealand.
His last appearance was against Wales in Cardiff 1994.
Turnbull became a police officer He was honoured with a chief constable"s commendation for his bravery after saving a pensioner from an escaped bull in Galashiels in November 2006.