'We’re incredibly grateful' - Massive celebration as Torquay Athletic RFC officially recognised by British & Irish Lions partner

Torquay Athletic Rugby Football Club has commemorated its Lions Origin Club status with local insurance broker Howden Newton Abbot.

As a Principal Partner of The British & Irish Lions, Howden Insurance is backing community level activities and supporting the grassroots game via Lions Origin Clubs.

These are clubs where every Lion through the years has begun their rugby journey. 

The club celebrated their legacy as Howden presented a plaque to celebrate the club’s connection to The British & Irish Lions, rooted in the career of Lee Mears and who began his rugby journey with Torquay Athletic RFC, and Sam Simmonds, whose youth career the club was proud to support.

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Both players earned selection for British & Irish Lions squads that toured South Africa, with Lee Mears part of Sir Ian McGeechan’s 2009 side, while Sam Simmonds featured in the 2021 squad under Warren Gatland.

Amanda Vallance, Branch Manager at Howden Newton Abbot said: “It was an honour to share with Torquay Athletic RFC a plaque that symbolises their contribution to the sport and their pivotal role in developing rugby legends.  

“Torquay Athletic RFC is one of 600 Origin Clubs that Howden Insurance is celebrating, as part of our commitment to supporting British rugby’s legacy. This partnership has never been just a name on a shirt – it’s about celebrating the deep-rooted history teams such as Torquay Athletic RFC that have shaped the game and produced incredible players like Lee Mears and Sam Simmonds.

“A huge thank you to everyone at the club, and congratulations again on both your Lions Origin Club status and many years of shaping rugby in Devon and Britain.” 

Chris Siddall, Director Facilities & Grounds at Torquay Athletic RFC, said: “A huge thank you to Lee Mears, who kindly took time out on his way to commentate the Bristol v Harlequins match to meet in Bath and personally receive the plaque on behalf of the club.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to Howden Insurance, for recognising the vital role clubs like ours play in developing future Lions and celebrating the legacy of community rugby across the UK.”

As a Principal Partner of The British & Irish Lions, Howden is committed to being a force for good in rugby communities across the UK and Ireland, supporting the sport’s growth and sustainability from grassroots to the professional level. 

Howden offers expert insurance broking services tailored to the needs of rugby clubs and individuals alike. From personal lines to clubhouse insurance, Howden provides comprehensive coverage that helps clubs focus on what they do best – nurturing talent and fostering a love for the game.  

To learn more about Howden Insurance, visit Car Insurance, Home & Van Insurance Newton Abbot | Howden Insurance and speak with a member of the team.

For more information about Torquay Athletic RFC visit Torquay Athletic RFC.