An official launch for the Pride of Lions – businesses supporting Bournemouth Rugby – proved a roaring success.

The event, held at 1812 at Bournemouth’s The Royal Exeter Hotel, was attended by many Dorset-based businesses.

It included player Q & A sessions with the audience learning more about a rugby player’s journey through the club, from the minis section, youth and, ultimately, senior level.

A special Lifetime Achievement award was also made to Doug Warren, President, recognising his loyal support and commitment to the club over several decades.

Doug Warren, who received a Lifetime Achievement award, pictured with Matthew Barker, Ben Goodman and Jordy Wayman.

Matthew Barker, Pride of Lions Chairman and Managing Director of Barker Laundry & Dry Cleaning, said: “The Pride of Lions is a community of businesses that we are bringing together to support Bournemouth Rugby.

“We were really pleased with the positive turnout at our inaugural, celebratory event and delighted at the commitment that has already been received from so many local businesses for their local community rugby club.

“We are urging businesses to join our ‘Pride’ and enjoy being a part of this fast-growing business network.

“Meet new connections with a shared interest in the game of rugby, which will help drive the wellbeing of the rugby community and ensure that the club thrives.

“There are great opportunities to promote your business, whilst supporting your local community and make new friends.

“We’re looking forward to an exciting and competitive season of rugby ahead.

“It was an absolute honour to present President Doug Warren with his Lifetime Achievement award and celebrate all that he has done for the club.”

Bournemouth Rugby is made up of adult and child players, their parents and supporters, all participating in the provision of Mini, Youth, Men’s and Women’s rugby, Wheelchair and Touch Rugby.

Matthew said: “To find out how the Pride of Lions could work for your business, please contact prideoflions@bournemouth-rugby.co.uk

“We’d love to hear from you!”

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Biz Gallery – pictures by Kate Shaw/KTPR.

Alan Manning, Bournemouth Rugby; Jeremy Channon, Laceys.

Ben Goodman, Jeffery Allum, Louis Allum, Bournemouth Rugby.

Billy Burrows, Bournemouth Rugby; Liz Ferioli-Brown, Ringwood Kickboxing Organisation; Joanna Burrows; Rich Brown, R Brown Specialist Laundry Engineering.

Allan Tofield, Richmond Home Improvement; Kate Shaw, KTPR.

Conrad Carkeet, Joe Desmond, Bournemouth Rugby.

Deb Hill, Alan Hill, Bournemouth Rugby.

Dai Rees, Jen Rees, May Estate Agents.

Gary O’Hara, Bournemouth Scaffolding; Jen Rees, Mays Estate Agents, Dai Rees.

Grant Hancox, Bournemouth Rugby; James Kidner, Trethowans solicitors.

Billy Burrows, Bournemouth Rugby; Liz Ferioli-Brown, Ringwood Kickboxing Organisation.

Jacqui Rock, Poole BID; Warren Munson, Azets.

Jordy Wayman, Harry Warr, Bournemouth Rugby.

Marianne Brown, MoJo Events; Jon Sanchez, Sanchez Dry Lining 7 Plasterers.

Matt Warwick, Bournemouth Rugby; Mark Warwick, Tactical & Strategic Solutions Ltd.

Paul Shaw, Paul Shaw Digital Consulting; Duncan Marsh, Intergage.

Jacqui Rock, Poole BID; Jeremy Channon, Laceys.

Nial Gaffney, Bournemouth Rugby; James Drace-Francis, Bournemouth Rugby.

Phil Sinkinson; Matthew Barker, Barker Laundry & Dry Cleaning.

Scott Clancy, BBX; James Maidment, 1812.

Simon HC, Peer2Peer; Matthew Barker, Barker Laundry & Dry Cleaning.

Toby Warren, Vicky Warren, Doug Warren, Abigail Turq, Jo Warren and Barney Warren.

Warren Munson, Nick Bryant, Andrew Singleton, Azets.

Wendy King, Pride of Lions; Becky Hill, Bournemouth Rugby Secretary,; Gemma Buchanan, Bournemouth Rugby.

Mike Davies, Matt Sturgess, Bournemouth Rugby.