Thanks to funding from the Northamptonshire Community Foundation through the Compton Fund, Northampton Saints Foundation is launching a new heritage initiative celebrating the 30 Saintsmen who have represented the British & Irish Lions, honouring their remarkable contribution to Northampton Saints and to the global game.
To celebrate the project, there will be an exhibition running on the 16th, 18th, 19th and 20th September at Captain's Bar, cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, from 10am 3pm.
The exhibition will showcase each of the Saintsmen that have represented the British and Irish Lions, with key items relating to them on display.
Within the exhibition, supporters will be invited to select their own Lions ‘Golden XV’ a fan-curated team chosen from Saints’ Lions through 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 brings those stories to life and invites our community to help tell them".
The Foundation is inviting members of the community to get involved by volunteering as researchers and helping to uncover the stories behind Saints’ Lions legends and future heritage project. Our volunteers will play a vital role in uncovering the details, objects, images and memories that celebrate the connections between club and international representation. We are also keen to hear from anyone who may have memorabilia to share, such as programmes, photographs or personal recollections, that could bring these histories to life.
All volunteers will receive full training and support to ensure they can contribute confidently to the project. To get involved, please email [email protected] or call Clare on 07933 185364.
