Last night, the London Irish tribe gathered to celebrate one of the club’s oldest and most cherished traditions: the awarding of Honours Ties. Since 1898, more than 1,200 ties have been presented in recognition of outstanding contribution and commitment. With its distinctive white stripe, the tie is worn with pride a badge of honour every player covets.

The evening’s highlight was a surprise for long standing stalwart and retiring Director of Rugby, Joe Byrne. Quietly orchestrated by Gerry Gallagher and Joe’s son Óisín, the plan brought together former Irish international and British & Irish Lion Séan O’Brien an ex London Irish player and Joe’s technical adviser who flew in specially to help make it happen. Joe’s brothers, Dermot and Eugene, arrived incognito from Ireland and, with his wife Lorraine looking on, the room was treated to a This Is Your Life style tribute celebrating Joe’s immense contribution to the club. The moment was completed perfectly when Joe was presented with the club’s Volunteer of the Year award.

Honours Ties were presented as follows:
• Emeralds Kevin Coyle presented ties to Daisy Evans and Jade Mullen.
• Wild Geese (men’s) Joe Byrne and incoming Director of Rugby Trevor Johnson presented ties to Pete Sowerby and Ryan Paige.
• Wanderers Ties were awarded to Jamie Bicknell and Dominic Aston.

In addition, Alex Michail received the David Fitzgerald Cup for her outstanding service to the Emeralds a richly deserved honour while Noah Hunter received a volunteer award for his contribution.

Thanks to Gerry Gallagher and Claire McCormack, the evening ran smoothly, including the complex logistics of Joe’s surprise. Bernice Wallin, General Manager of Hazelwood, offered warm words about supporting the club this season and gave a well earned shout out to groundsman Andrew Speight, who has worked wonders with the pitches.

After dinner, music from Barry Owen & The Main Attraction drew many onto the dance floor. It was a joy to see Mary Barrett and her friends showing the younger folk a thing or two their line dancing routine was a highlight.

Reflecting on the night, it’s clear how fortunate we are to be part of London Irish. For more than 125 years, the club has been part of the global rugby family, and for 60 years it has been rooted in the Sunbury community. Friday night was a reminder that our traditions keep friendships alive and help new ones to flourish. A wonderful celebration of who we are and the community we continue to build together.