The Awards, inaugurated last year, are the first of their kind to be given to sport by any All Party Committee and are supported by Zurich, one of the leading sponsors of English and European Rugby and sponsors of the 2005 Lions' tour to New Zealand.
Derek Wyatt MP for Sittingbourne and Sheppey, a former England rugby international, who is Chairman of the Group said:
"Following the huge upsurge of excitement generated by England's Rugby World Cup win, the Group felt it was entirely appropriate to acknowledge the massive contribution that has been made to the world of Rugby by the British & Irish Lions. The Lions really do unite the five 'home' countries in the most unique manner and next summer's tour to New Zealand will be the international sporting highlight of the year. The selection criteria of 'outstanding achievement' and 'excellence' brought us quickly to look at the modern professional era and the unanimous selection of these four fantastic Lions"
Wallace Dobbin - Strategy, Marketing and Communications Director for Zurich commented:
"Once again, Zurich is especially proud to be supporting these awards and their association this year with the British & Irish Lions. The achievements of these four men have not only furthered the reputation of the Lions, but they have established a huge marker for themselves which is recognised by fellow players and sports fans around the world"
The players each received 'The Parliamentary Rugby Medal' - commissioned from Asprey the Crown Jewellers - at a dinner held in their honour at the House of Commons on Friday night (3rd December).
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