Celebrating Saints’ Lions Legacy

Thanks to funding from the Northamptonshire Community Foundation through the Compton Fund, Northampton Saints Foundation launched a heritage initiative honouring the 30 Saintsmen who have represented the British & Irish Lions. 

This project celebrated their remarkable contribution to Northampton Saints and to the global game.

Exhibition at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens

To mark the project, an exhibition was held in September 2025 in the Captain’s Bar at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens.

The exhibition showcased each Saintsman who had represented the British & Irish Lions, with key items relating to their careers on display.

Supporters were invited to select their own Lions ‘Golden XV’ – a fan-curated team chosen from Saints’ Lions across the decades.

“The British & Irish Lions hold a unique place in rugby folklore, and Northampton Saints’ contribution is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Clare Clarke, the Foundation’s Heritage Lead.

“From Blair Swannell, our very first Lion in 1899, to the recently returning quartet of Fin Smith, Henry Pollock, Tommy Freeman and Alex Mitchell, these players have carried Saints’ values onto the world stage.

“This project brought those stories to life and invited our community to help tell them.”

Community Involvement and Heritage Skills

The Foundation invited members of the community to get involved by volunteering as researchers, helping uncover the stories behind Saints’ Lions legends. 

Volunteers played a vital role in discovering details, objects, images and memories that celebrated the connections between Club and international representation.

We also reached out to anyone with memorabilia to share – such as programmes, photographs or personal recollections – to help bring these histories to life.

Looking Back

This project not only honoured Saints’ contribution to the British & Irish Lions but also strengthened community ties and preserved an important chapter of rugby heritage. 

Through exhibitions, research, and shared memories, the Lions Project ensured that these stories remain part of Northampton Saints’ proud legacy.