Six schools from Warwickshire, North Midlands and Staffordshire moved a step closer to a dream trip to Twickenham today when they won through from the Midlands West finals day of the HSBC Rugby Festivals in Birmingham watched by former England and British & Irish Lions international Jason Robinson.

The schools will now compete in the national finals at Staines RFC on May 2. The top teams from that event will then have the honour of running out at Twickenham later that day in front of a 40,000 crowd on the day of the annual Army v Navy match.

"Having the chance to play at Twickenham is a big incentive," Robinson said.

"The closest most of them have got to Twickenham is watching a game on TV. I know as a player that it's such a fantastic place to play and if they get that opportunity they will never forget it, that's for sure.

"To be able to walk down that tunnel and to grace the pitch is something that not many people can say they have ever done."

The schools that qualified for the national finals at Staines were: Kingsbury School who beat Warwickshire rivals Caludon Castle two tries to nil in the Year 7 New Schools event, Westacre School from Worcestershire who beat Walton School from Stafford 2-1 in the Year 7 Emerging Schools final, Aldridge School from Warwickshire who beat Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College from Worcester 1-0 in the Year 7 Girls final, Barr Beacon School from Walsall who beat Paulet School from Burton 3-1 in the Year 8 New Schools final, Weston Road from Stafford who beat Ludlow School 2-1 in the Year 8 Emerging Schools final and Tudor Grange from Solihull who beat Myton School from Leamington 1-0 in the Year 9 New Schools competition.

Robinson, a HSBC Lions Ambassador, took time to coach some of the 500 youngsters who were involved in the Midlands West regional finals day at Five Ways OE's ground at Hopwood on the southern outskirts of Birmingham.

"It's great to get out there with the kids, to get involved with them and how they react every time you go to an event," he said.

"They enjoy their rugby and they get good coaching. It's vital that we encourage youngsters coming through. This is where it started for me and it's through enthusiastic people and people who run the game that I was able to enjoy a very privileged career.

"It's about getting kids to play rugby and enjoy it. I can't stress how much enjoyment has to be a massive part of it.

"If you are not enjoying it then it's going to be a duty as opposed to just getting out there and having some fun with your mates.

"This is the great thing that HSBC have done by supporting this programme because it's vital that we do invest time and money into the kids."

Robinson, who scored the try that helped England win the Rugby World Cup in 2003, was joined by two current England women internationals in Sarah Guest and Sarah Hunter.

The Midlands West festival, which is one of many being staged across the country, is supported by HSBC, the Principal Partner of the British & Irish Lions Tour to South Africa in 2009. Sport England have also provided a matched funding grant for the programme.

This is the first time that a grass roots campaign spans all four home unions, as well as South Africa. The programme will reach more than 60,000 school children and 3,000 teachers and coaches across 300 youth festivals in the UK and Ireland and form strong cultural links with schools in South Africa.

In England, the HSBC Rugby Festivals will incorporate the existing RFU Emerging Schools programme that comprises more than 150 individual events. Young players take part in Under-12, 13 and 14 categories at local, county and regional festivals.

Rugby World Cup winner Richard Hill is a three-time British & Irish Lion and a member of the victorious 1997 Lions squad led by Ian McGeechan. He recently reflected on some of his favourite Lions memories at an HSBC Lions Legends event...

"Back in 1997 everyone in South Africa, and the vast majority of fans over here, were predicting a South African white wash. We were massive underdogs and it actually worked really well in our favour. To hear how confident the South Africans were was fantastic news for the Lions squad – it was a great way of us bonding as we all had a common goal and were all desperate to beat the Springboks. Absolutely no-one thought we could win, except for the squad.

McGeechan is an incredible man and the 2009 squad are very lucky to have him leading them again this summer. The simple fact that he has been involved with the Lions on so many occasions speaks volumes. He is articulate, extremely motivational and just listening to him meant we were all pretty pumped up before each match. Geech is a real tactician and gets under the skin of the opposition.

In contrast Jim [Telfer] was very different and was a very hard man who also expected results. Interestingly, he was probably toughest with his own Scottish players. We knew that to win in South Africa we had to win the scrum. The intense, physical training we did and all the fitness work really stood us in good stead for the test matches.

Back then there was real competition for places. The players who came from no-where ended up being the stars of the Tour – players like John Bentley, Tom Smith, Paul Wallace etc. all fought their way into the test team.

I think my happiest memory of the 1997 Tour was the final whistle of the second test and the glorious scene of Lions fans in the stands. There was just red jerseys everywhere.

Looking back at 2001, it was a very different Tour. My overriding feeling is disappointment on that Tour as we should have won. At the first test everyone was really relaxed which didn't feel right but we got the result. It was probably the best team I was ever involved with for the Lions. We had a very clear goal of how we wanted to win and we stuck to it. Everything just clicked into place that day which doesn't often happen.

I really hope that the team are successful this summer. I think that Paul O'Connell will be captain and will lead by example. It is hard to say who from England will get the nod. Jonny Wilkinson could be back from injury within the next month and although it would be an incredibly big ask to get him in to the team, there is absolutely nothing to lose by getting him on Tour.

We have every reason to be optimistic as the squad will certainly be in a better state to that of 12 years ago but they do still have to face the World Champions in a notoriously hostile environment."

HSBC ambassador Gareth Edwards is widely regarded as one of the greatest ever British & Irish Lions players. He toured three times with the Lions winning 10 caps including the legendary 1974 Tour to South Africa.

Here Gareth remembers the moment he found out he was to be a British & Irish Lion.....

"Things are very different now with regards to the media focus and excitement around a British & Irish Lions Tour. Back in my day all the players were told they were selected by letter. I was there waiting for this brown envelope to arrive. I was so nervous I struggled to open it but when I did it read 'Dear Mr Edwards, You have been selected to tour with the British Lions to South Africa. Please find enclosed a voucher for two pairs of boots. We advise that you bring a heavy sweater with you as it can be chilly in the evenings in South Africa.' Its slightly different to nowadays and the amount of kit the squads receive!

I felt such a thrill and so much anticipation as to me I was going to be playing alongside my heroes like Willie John McBride. We all met up in Eastbourne for a week's training. It was fantastic to all come together. There were no Nintendos or computer games back then so we had to make our own fun. And as well as playing some good rugby on that tour we certainly had some fun too! The squad was split into two groups – the wreckers and the kippers. Willie John was leader of the wreckers to that's the side I chose!

The thing that is so special to me about the Lions is the different cultures and backgrounds coming together. No Lion will ever forget the camaraderie that you share as a squad. It is such a close knit group it is fantastic. Whether you go ten years without seeing each other you still share that common bond that is unique.It is an absolute pleasure and honour to tour with the Lions and I just hope that the 2009 squad will feel the same in 30 years as we do now. Sometimes the Lions will be successful, sometimes they won't but no Lion will ever forget the special friends they made and the fun that they had."

Mike Teague toured twice with the Lions in 1989 and 1993. He reflects how he was told he was to Tour with the Lions...

"1989 in particular was special to me. Ian McGeechan was coach and for some reason I was lucky enough to be named as the Player of the Series. Every single rugby player strives to be a Lion. All I wanted when I was growing up was to be a Lion. In 1985 I played for England but was blown out of the side. I came back and played for Cardiff trying to get back into the England side. I was fitter when I did get recalled and was called up for the last England game against Wales before the Lions Tour. I believe that my appearance for England that day was the shortest ever appearance for an international. I think it took 3.8 seconds before I was knocked out. As soon as it happened I assumed that I had missed out on Lions selection. But then following Monday I received a phone call. I picked up the phone and heard the voice on the other end ask if that was Mike Teague, the British Lion. That was the first I knew about being selected and is perhaps my proudest moment in my entire career.

I remember going on that first Tour. Pulling on a shirt in which you feel you can't possibly lose. You look around the changing room at the amazing players surrounding you and feel such pride. I was injured for some of the Tour and I honestly believe that the best team talk I have ever heard was when I was sat in the stands while I was injured and listened to the Australians around me slating the Lions.

To me the Lions is truly special and a fantastic experience. I hope the 2009 guys are successful and make the most of the opportunity."

Former British & Irish Lions captain Gavin Hastings was on hand at Murrayfield today to help the Scottish Rugby Union launch the HSBC Rugby Festivals. HSBC is the Principal Partner of the British & Irish Lions Tour to South Africa next summer and is investing in the world’s largest schools programme which is being undertaken by all four home unions.

Hastings, who earned 61 caps for Scotland, was joined by David Callam of Edinburgh, to pass on tips and coaching advice to some lucky youngsters from Tynecastle High School. 

The original plan for a festival with 450 children from across the region had to be postponed due to the recent cold weather freezing the pitches.  But Hastings and Callam were still keen to meet up with the children to announce the HSBC programme.

Speaking at the launch Hastings said, "We were due to have 450 children together today to participate in a major rugby festival but the traditional Scottish weather has put paid to that! 

"However, it is still a great illustration of just how much enthusiasm there is for rugby in Scotland. To spend time with the children today and hear how much enjoyment they get from playing the game is fantastic. The festival will still take place in the New Year so the children will still get to take part."

Hastings captained the British & Irish Lions in New Zealand in 1993, Gavin is an HSBC ambassador for the Lions Tour next summer. He continued, "The HSBC Rugby Festivals aim to encourage children who don’t necessarily have many opportunities to play rugby to get involved with the sport that we all love."

Nick Rennie, Community Rugby Partnership Manager, Scottish Rugby, also backed the scheme and said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank HSBC and all involved with the HSBC Rugby Festivals for their support. 

"We all look forward to seeing the game of rugby being played in more schools and this series of festivals will ensure that children from every region across Scotland have the opportunity to take part, stay active and make new friends."

Over the coming six months, the HSBC Rugby Festivals will involve more than 60,000 children, as well as over 3,000 teachers and coaches. The one-day festivals are being staged in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales – the first time a British Lions sponsor has undertaken such a comprehensive grass roots programme. The initiative will culminate in South Africa during the Lions Tour next summer with more coaching festivals in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Port Elizabeth.

In another first for a Lions sponsor, 40 of the schools participating in the HSBC Rugby Festivals will be twinned with schools in South Africa as part of a kit donation and cultural exchange programme. Working with the International Rugby Board’s SOS Kit Aid scheme, HSBC will be linking the schools in the UK and Ireland with schools across South Africa. The first of these schools was announced recently by Jason Robinson who was joined by South African Rugby World Cup winner Bryan Habana to twin Pimlico Academy in South London with Hillcrest Primary School in Port Elizabeth.

Giles Morgan, Group Head of Sponsorship, HSBC Holdings plc explained more, "HSBC is the world’s local bank and aims to bring together people from different cultures. Working at the grass roots level of the game is one of the most important elements of HSBC’s sponsorship of the British & Irish Lions, and we are extremely proud to be bringing together children from across the UK and Ireland with children in South Africa. We hope that the children on both sides of the scheme will benefit from learning more about each other’s culture and experiences and that a shared passion for rugby will act as the perfect bond."

As part of the HSBC Rugby Festivals, HSBC will provide schools with kit as well as ongoing tips and coaching via a central grass roots area on the official Lions website www.lionsrugby.com.

With just a couple of months to go until the British & Irish Lions Tour, HSBC ambassador Jason Robinson and Springbok winger Bryan Habana joined forces once more in the name of the HSBC Rugby Festivals. As Principal Partner of the Tour this summer, HSBC is delivering a series of HSBC Rugby Festivals fronted by Jason Robinson, with a kit collection scheme and school twinning initiative being an integral part of the programme.

Habana and Robinson first joined up in November when they visited Pimlico Academy in South London to launch a special SOS IRB Kit Aid scheme in advance of this summer's Tour to South Africa. Children at 40 schools across the UK & Ireland are being twinned with schools in South Africa, and last week marked the first delivery of kit into South Africa.

Habana distributed the kit, collected over 6,000 miles away by Pimlico, amongst the students at Hillcrest, a school in Port Elizabeth he personally nominated to benefit from the scheme.
Speaking at the event, Habana said, "Given the environment in which some of these children grow up, it is difficult for them to dream big dreams. I am so humbled and proud to have been asked to be a part of a programme that will give the kids at Hillcrest, and a host of other schools in South Africa, some hope and excitement for their future. What we have witnessed here is how something relatively small in our privileged lives can make such a difference in the lives of those less fortunate."

Back in the UK, Jason Robinson was at another HSBC Rugby Festival in the shadow of Windsor Castle, but managed to catch up with Bryan on the phone to find out how the kit drop was received.  Robinson spoke proudly of the scheme saying, "I feel passionate about this particular part of the HSBC programme, and it’s fantastic that kit that Bryan and I collected back in November, along with t-shirts, shorts and jerseys from the kids in Pimlico has now been given to children in South Africa. I have seen first-hand how some youngsters in South Africa have to play in bare foot or in their school uniform because they simply don't have the clothing or equipment that we often take for granted over here. It was great to hear from Bryan that the kit is now being put to good use."

Staff from HSBC attended both events, with HSBC Africa CEO Krishna Patel saying, "It was incredible to see how excited the children were from Hillcrest, and has really brought the whole HSBC Rugby Festival programme full circle. Staff from HSBC in the UK & Ireland are involved with the grass roots programme over there, which is the world's biggest schools rugby programme, and are donating their own unused rugby kit. To see the first set of kit being delivered to a South African school and it bringing so much happiness to the children is wonderful.  This is the very start of a major community outreach programme that HSBC is working on in South Africa in the build up to the Lions Tour and we are grateful to Bryan for coming today and making so many children so very happy."

Anne Campher, Headmistress of Hillcrest Primary School echoed Krishna's thanks. "We kept it a secret from the children that Bryan was coming.  They were already thrilled to be receiving this extremely kind delivery from our friends at Pimlico. It has been a very special day and something the children, and teachers, will remember for a very long time. The children here love playing rugby and this delivery will make a real difference as children can now change out of their school uniform and play the game they all love so much."

Giles Morgan, Group Head of Sponsorship for HSBC added, "It is fantastic to see the kit donation scheme really come to life. Across England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales we still have another 39 schools collecting kit which will be delivered to their twinned schools over the coming months. This is an important element of HSBC's sponsorship of the British & Irish Lions Tour and hopefully we can build on the success of Hillcrest and enable even more youngsters to get more enjoyment from their rugby."

Myself and the other South African coaches are all watching the Six Nations closely. It is interesting as obviously Wales and Ireland have done well against the home unions and we have been watching them particularly closely. England are going through somewhat of a transitional period with their new coach but all the games are impressively competitive. It is obvious that the players have a major incentive to play well in this season in particular with the prospect of the Lions at the end.

I have been impressed by some of the Scotland guys especially against Italy. I know that Italy can be a tough side so it was interesting to see some individual performance such as Simon Taylor, Jason White, Chris Paterson and Mike Blair.

I think the two full backs from Ireland and Wales respectively (Rob Kearney and Lee Byrne) will give the British & Irish Lions selectors a head ache over the coming weeks. I think that Ian McGeechan will be very wise in his selections and will pick a couple of experienced, old heads alongside youngsters who play with the freedom that won’t let the pressure of the occasion get to them.

In terms of the 2nd rowers – Paul O’Connell stands out for me but also Alun Wyn Jones. When it comes to England, I can’t really say at the moment who should Tour. I can’t discredit Nick Kennedy or Delon Armitage but then I am a bit biased as I coached them both at London Irish and think they are fantastic players. Both of them could be wildcards for the Tour. I think Danny Care is a good player and an outside bet as well as Mike Blair. Similarly James Haskell is a fantastic player in my eyes but then so is Martyn Williams for Wales and David Wallace for Ireland. Both are real work horses.

Whoever they pick, I am sure there will be a good spread of players from all four nations. I don’t think Wales will provide any more than perhaps 30% of the squad followed by Ireland and then Scotland and England making up the rest.

In terms of who will be captain it’s hard to say. Paul O’Connell or Brian O’Driscoll are the two obvious candidates from here in South Africa. Brian is more experienced and is probably the best bet from the four current home nations captains. However, someone that we are keeping an eye on closely back here is Jonny Wilkinson. Jonny has exceptional leadership skills and I was personally very impressed with what he did with Newcastle when I was over in the premiership. I am sure he isn’t far from fitness and is truly a world class player – perhaps the only one left in England currently, and one name that would leap off the team sheet to any opposition. I have no doubt he will be back but whilst I don’t think he will be the Lions captain this summer, he is probably the only player who could be assured of walking straight into any British & Irish Lions squad. We are keeping a close eye on everyone at the moment and analysing what they are doing as the battle for places is wide open.

There has been some debate in the media about Bryan Habana and whether he has lost his spark. I can reassure you 110% that to me Bryan Habana is still a world class player and South Africa are very lucky to have him in our squad. He has hurt his hand during the Super 14 but I actually think it is a blessing in disguise. Expectations were so high for Bryan - every time he plays a game the pressure is on him to win the match. I think this injury has come at a good time for him and will let him rest and relax and watch some Super 14s. I don’t believe he is showing a lack of form at all and still believe he is outstanding.

Being involved with the current South African team, I feel very lucky that we have such a fantastic squad. We have four out of the five Super 14s captains which brings a wealth of experience and talent to the team. We are in the same position as England were in after their Rugby World Cup win in 2003 and are lucky that our captain, John Smit, is, like Jonny, one of those stand out players who leaps out of the page.

There is so much anticipation and excitement amongst fans and players over here. The Lions is such a special and significant part of Springbok history and tradition that you are constantly reminded about the defeat 12 years ago. It hurt the South Africans so much to lose in 1997, especially to traditionalists who know that the Springboks outscored the Lions in terms of tries, so it was a bitter pill to swallow. A lot of people here still remember the 1974 Lions Tour which was such a whitewash victory for the Lions so there is no doubt that every single South African wants the squad to win this summer.

I was in England for the last two British & Irish Lions Tours and saw how much appetite there was amongst the UK and Ireland fans. 40,000 fans travelling half way around the world to watch a team who only play every four years is very special. For the South African players, the fact that they only tour here every 12 years means that it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to play against the Lions. Of the 710 Springboks who have been capped since Unity only 26 players have ever been capped against the Lions.

When I am asked about the threat the Lions bring, I always say that if you are selecting the best players from four top nations then you will end up with a very, very, good rugby squad. Add to that the prestige that goes with playing for the Lions and the fact that this is the last place that they won, and you have a cracker of a rugby tour.

It may be over a year since Jason Robinson retired from professional rugby, but the 34 year old Rugby World Cup winner is still very much involved with the sport he loves. As an HSBC Lions ambassador, Robinson is spearheading the HSBC Rugby Festivals - the world's largest schools rugby programme. And today his thirst to inspire the next generation of emerging rugby players saw Robinson return to his own roots when he attended a festival at Leeds Corinthians RUFC.

Robinson grew up in Leeds, and first took up the game of rugby when he attended Cross Flatts Park Middle in the city. Reflecting on his childhood rugby, he said: "I went to a school where rugby wasn't that popular. We didn't have facilities or much equipment but I was inspired to play the sport whilst at school and really enjoyed it. First and foremost, it is about enjoying the sport and I am hopeful that through the HSBC Rugby Festivals, we can get even more children playing and enjoying the game of rugby. Who knows, perhaps we can even uncover a few future Lions in the process!"

Whilst back on his old stomping ground, Robinson was also reunited with an old face - one of his sports teachers as a young boy, Mr David Aspinall, who he hadn't seen for over 20 years. Having spotted a talent in the young Robinson, Mr Aspinall watched his career flourish in recent years including winning the Rugby World Cup with England in 2003, and earning selection for two British & Irish Lions Tours.

Aspinall today recalled his first impressions of the young Jason Robinson: "Jason was a fantastic youngster with a natural talent with the ball. I have always enjoyed coaching rugby and it was a pleasure teaching Jason. I have enjoyed seeing his success on and off the pitch and am incredibly proud to see what he has achieved since he took up rugby at Cross Flatts Park Middle."

For Robinson, it was a pleasure to be reunited with his old teacher after so many years. Robinson said: "I still remember playing rugby and being coached by David Aspinall - he was certainly a hard task master but certainly ignited my enthusiasm for the game. Hopefully by my involvement in the HSBC Rugby Festivals, I can play a similar role for many young players both in Leeds and up and down the country. They will hopefully benefit from being involved in today's festival and carry on enjoying their rugby for many years to come."

As Principal Partner of the British & Irish Lions Tour to South Africa this summer, two-time British Lion, and HSBC ambassador Jason Robinson is coaching children across England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales with the emphasis on emerging rugby schools.

Eleven schools from across Leeds were involved in the HSBC Rugby Festival today and benefitted from coaching with Robinson, as well as coaches from the RFU. The festival was staged in partnership with the RFU as part of HSBC's commitment to developing rugby through their sponsorship of the British & Irish Lions.

Speaking on the programme, Giles Morgan, Group Head of Sponsorship of HSBC Holdings plc, said, "The British & Irish Lions is all about people from different cultures coming together and HSBC shares many of the same values. Youth, education and community are at the very centre of HSBC's association with the Lions, and we are extremely proud to be involved with such a major grass roots programme that will hopefully leave a legacy in the UK & Ireland, as well as in South Africa for many years to come.

"In addition to over 300 festivals which are being staged in the four home nations, HSBC is twinning schools in the UK & Ireland with schools in South Africa. HSBC is working with IRB SOS Kit Aid to collect unused rugby kit over here to deliver to emerging rugby schools in South Africa, and a Coach Education programme will also be introduced in South Africa to enable even more children to be able to learn and play rugby in the future."

At the same time as Robinson inspired the young rugby players in Leeds, HSBC Rugby Festivals were also taking place today with over 100 children in both Scotland (Glasgow) and Wales (Llanelli). Robinson's fellow HSBC ambassador Gavin Hastings was present passing on his knowledge in Scotland, representing the ethos of HSBC's grass roots initiative, the first time such a programme has spanned all four home unions.

Following on from the inaugural HSBC Rugby Festival, at Highland Rugby Club in Inverness, a hugely successful follow-up event was held in Glasgow on Wednesday (25 February) - the third in a series of festivals sponsored by Scottish Rugby's newest partner, HSBC.

The scheme aims to encourage the enjoyment of rugby, with local festivals for schools that are new to participation in the sport.

At Whitecraigs, Glasgow Warriors players Andrew Henderson, James Eddie and John Welsh joined former British & Irish Lions captain Gavin Hastings at the event and gave their full support and advice to participating Glasgow school children before signing autographs giving the young players an insight into what it takes to be a professional athlete.

Glasgow Warriors and Scotland internationalist, Andrew Henderson, added: "The players are all really new to the game so today we were playing half pitch 7s and, while it was certainly full contact out there, the scrums and the line-outs were uncontested.

"It's really encouraging to see so many children from local schools come together to enjoy the game of rugby - especially when you see their level of enthusiasm so soon after being introduced to the game."

Hot on the heels of the Edinburgh and Highlands events, five schools from across the city of Edinburgh took part in the 'Super 7s' event, which included rugby skills coaching and matches at West lodge.

Whitecraigs development officer, Boyd Carswell, said: "The HSBC Rugby Festivals are part of a number of new initiatives that can help to promote the growth of the sport and can really encourage schools that are new to rugby to take up the sport and meet other teams in their region.

"We all look forward to seeing the game of rugby being played in more schools and this series of festivals will ensure that children from every region across Scotland have the opportunity to take part, stay active and make new friends."

Over the coming six months, the HSBC Rugby Festivals will involve more than 60,000 children, as well as over 3,000 teachers and coaches. The one-day festivals are being staged in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales - the first time a British & Irish Lions sponsor has undertaken such a comprehensive grass roots programme. The initiative will culminate in South Africa during the Lions Tour next summer with more coaching festivals in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Port Elizabeth.

After captaining the British & Irish Lions in New Zealand in 1993, Hastings is an HSBC ambassador for the Lions Tour next summer. Hastings said: "It has been rewarding to witness so much enthusiasm for rugby amongst today's participants.

"The British & Irish Lions tour this summer is a major sporting event and will hopefully inspire many more children across all four home nations to play."

Giles Morgan, Group Head of Sponsorship at HSBC holdings, added: "HSBC is extremely proud to be working with each of the four home unions to deliver the world's largest grass roots programme.

"Scottish Rugby are delivering a terrific youth rugby programme across the whole of Scotland through the HSBC Rugby Festivals and I am looking forward to the remainder of the programme."

It may be the middle of the Six Nations but the WRU and HSBC today kicked off a new junior rugby programme in the name of the Lions. As Principal Partner and shirt sponsor of this summer's British & Irish Lions Tour to South Africa, HSBC has joined forces with the WRU to host a series of one day rugby festivals for youngsters across Wales.

The HSBC Rugby Festivals is the world's largest schools rugby programme and is being carried out across all four home unions. Today in Llanelli, thirteen schools from across the Scarlets region took part in Wales' first festival at Coleg Sir Gar, Llanelli.

Over the coming months, there will be another 20 festivals involving 105 schools and 2,300 12-14 year old children across all five Welsh rugby regions - Blues, Dragons, Ospreys, Scarlets and North Wales. WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis said, "The Welsh Rugby Union sees the development of the community game as a priority and we are delighted to be able to assist with this initiative.

"One of our main goals is to increase participation levels in the game and projects like these give young people fantastic life experiences which will no doubt inspire some of them to strive to achieve their potential in sport and in life."

Speaking on the HSBC Rugby Festivals, Giles Morgan, Group Head of Sponsorship at HSBC Holdings said, "I am delighted that all four nations are currently running a full youth rugby programme as part of HSBC's sponsorship of the British Lions. This is the first time that a rugby programme has been run concurrently across all four home nations and today alone there are festivals being staged in Scotland (Glasgow) and England (Leeds) as well as in Wales, with hundreds of children benefitting from professional coaching.

"By the time the first ball is kicked on the Lions Tour in May, over 60,000 children and 3,000 coaches and teachers will have been involved in the HSBC Rugby Festivals. Youth, community and education are at the forefront of HSBC's Lions sponsorship and everyone is extremely proud of the programme that is being delivered in partnership with each of the home unions."

In addition to activity in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, HSBC is working to forge cultural links with schools in South Africa. Ten schools across the region will be selected as HSBC 'hub' schools meaning that they will responsible for collecting unused rugby kit to be delivered to South Africa during the Lions Tour. HSBC has joined forces with IRB SOS Kit Aid to organise a series of kit donations to emerging rugby schools.

Three British & Irish Lions legends will be entertaining a sold out SWALEC Stadium on Friday night when the Cardiff HSBC Lions Legends event kicks off on the eve of the Wales versus England international clash.

Gareth Edwards, who toured in 1968, 1971 and 1974, teams up with Mike Teague (1989 and 1993) and Willie John McBride (1962, '66, '68, '71 and '74) to share their on and off the field stories of former Lions tours and debate the selection of the HSBC Lions Legends XV.

After Cardiff, the HSBC Lions Legends event series, which is in support of the Lions Charitable Trust, arrives in Dublin on the evening of Thursday 26 February, when Paul Wallace (1997), Fergus Slattery (1971 and 1974) and Gareth Edwards (1968, '72 and '74) team up on stage at the Guinness Storehouse.

Following Cardiff and Dublin are lunches and dinners in Birmingham (Hilton Metropole, 13 March), Manchester (Hilton Deansgate, 20 March), Edinburgh (Sheraton Hotel, 2 April), London (1 May) and Newport (Celtic Manor, 8 May).

Commenting on lionsrugby.com, Gerald Davies, tour manager for the British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa in 2009, said: "You can't forget the Lions, you can't ignore them. They hold a special place in the history of world rugby. That is why the HSBC Lions Legends series of lunches and dinners has been created, to celebrate the Lions' command of the rugby landscape.

"You talk to any player who's been on a Lions tour and he has sweet, unforgettable memories of his time with the Lions. These events give everyone the opportunity to experience this."

Places are still available at the Dublin dinner and the five events that follow. Book your place now on 01452 888668 or click here for more information.

With the kick off of the RBS 6 Nations just days away and his fellow countrymen putting the final touches to the defence of their crown, Welsh legend Gareth Edwards today played down their tags as favourites for the competition.

Whilst Edwards believes that a repeat of the triumph experienced last March by Ryan Jones' men is not out of the question, he is under no illusion of the difficulty of their task over the coming weeks.

Edwards, an ambassador for HSBC, the Principal Partner of this year's British & Irish Lion's Tour to South Africa, said: "I don't think there is one side that sticks out as favourites for this year's competition and that is despite Wales coming in as Grand Slam winning defending champions and their wonderful victory over South Africa in the autumn.

"No doubt there is a buoyancy about the Welsh game at the moment but it is such an intense competition and it won't be easy, especially with a difficult trip to play Scotland at Murrayfield on the opening weekend. I remember even Graham Henry being surprised by the ferocity of the competition and that will be the same again this year. "

Whilst not going as far to tip his countrymen as favourites, Edwards did pick out a number of Welsh players that he is looking forward to lighting up the competition, with the Lions Tour this summer an extra incentive for all the players involved.

"Some of the Welsh boys have been consistent now for a good year and a half, especially since the Grand Slam last year. Whilst securing the RBS 6 Nations title for Wales, they will also want to be the first guys to put their hands up and show Ian McGeechan's staff they've got the credentials to go on the Lions Tour this summer.

"I think there are plenty of Welsh players who are quite capable of getting themselves into the Lions equation such as Gethin Jenkins, who is a powerhouse up front, and Ryan Jones, who I believe is still a strong candidate for captaincy. Other names have been pushed hard following Ryan's supposed slow start to the season - Paul O'Connell and Brian O'Driscoll for example - but he is certainly playing well and back to his high standards of last year.

"I'm also hoping that some of the younger players are given a chance to shine, and put a marker down for the Lions Tour. I am thinking of players such as Leigh Halfpenny, who might still be relatively new to the squad, but whose versatility at either wing or full back coupled with some dazzling displays over the next four or five games, could force him into Lions reckoning.

"Jamie Roberts, the young Cardiff Blues centre has quickly regained his form following the nasty injury sustained when he cracked his skull, and is another young player with a big role to play if Wales are to win the competition.

"And of course I am also looking forward to watching the more obvious players such as Shane Williams, who lights up every game he plays in at the moment, and Mike Phillips, who will desperately be looking to impress. Shane is one in particular who will want to make up for the last Lions tour, when he was written off as too small, and too lightweight to make an impression."

And with so much exciting talent on display, Edwards can't wait for the big kick off, and the prospect of the clash with England very much front of mind.

"It's not an easy opener for Wales in Scotland but I am particularly looking forward to the Wales - England game on the second weekend. England down in Cardiff is always a great occasion, a tough encounter and the perfect chance for the Welsh to catch the Lions management's attention."

Despite the launch of the HSBC Rugby Festivals programme being practically snowed off back in December, the very first one-day festival was successfully staged last week in Inverness.

The first Scottish HSBC Rugby festival in partnership with the Scottish Rugby Union took place on Wednesday January 28 at Highland Rugby Club in Inverness.

The HSBC Rugby Festivals programme is the world's biggest schools rugby initiative and involves over 60,000 children from across the four Home Unions. The scheme aims to encourage an enjoyment of rugby and organises local festivals for schools that are new to the sport to participate in.

Glasgow Warriors players Mark McMillan and Jose-Maria Nunez-Piossek were on hand to give support and advice to children from nine schools from across the Highland region. They were able to sign some autographs and give the young players an insight into what it takes to play rugby at a professional level.

"It is really encouraging to see so many children from local schools come together to enjoy the game of rugby," said Brian Bell, regional development manager for the Grampian region.

"The HSBC Rugby Festivals are part of a number of new initiatives that can help to promote the growth of the sport in a region where natural geography can make regular fixtures difficult to arrange."

The Inverness festival is one of a series of 16 events that will take place around Scotland before the end of May 2009 and over 100 schools will have taken part by the end of the current school year.

Former Lions and Scotland captain Gavin Hastings has told England they are lucky to have a set of brothers amongst their team to play Italy this weekend.

The 47-year-old HSBC ambassador played alongside his younger brother Scott for both Scotland and Lions and admits that, putting sentiment aside, there is a bond between brothers that can only help England on Saturday.

"As brothers you have always played rugby together," explained Hastings, who skippered the Lions on their 1993 tour to New Zealand.

"Delon and Steffan Armitage have literally spent years playing alongside each other and will have a telepathic understanding of each other."

"When Scott and I were playing for Scotland all it would take was a look from him and I would instantly know what he was either going to do or wanted me to do."

Gavin played alongside Scott on his first Lions Tour to Australia in 1989, scoring the decisive try to win the second test, thanks to a pass from Scott.

"There is obviously a great history of sets of brothers playing in the same international team together over the years, and England should regard themselves as lucky to have the latest band of brothers within their squad."

I am looking forward to seeing the Armitage's play on Saturday. They can both be very exciting players and seem to represent a new breed of talent that is coming through for England."

"I wish both of them all the very best in their careers, and hope that they really enjoy Saturday. It is a very special honour to not only represent your country but to line up alongside your brother."

Brothers Gavin and Scott Hastings were Scotland and Lions colleagues

Despite being captain of both Scotland and the Lions, Gavin was grateful that the responsibility of team selection didn't fall to him.

"I think Mother Hastings would have had a few words to say if I was in charge of picking the team and hadn't chosen Scott, although she has four boys and always dreamt of all four of us playing together for Scotland!" added Hastings.

"We get on pretty well and I absolutely loved playing alongside Scott. It was a very special time every time we represented our country, and the Lions, together."

"We both earned our first international cap together and then, eight years later, we both earned our 50th cap together. It's quite amazing if you think about it that eight years later and we still reached that special milestone together in exactly the same fixture."

Looking ahead to the forthcoming RBS Six Nations, Hastings believes that Scotland have a real chance against Wales this weekend.

"Wales are the best team in the tournament but it is up to them to prove it. And it's equally up to Scotland to try and knock them off their pedestal."

"I have watched a lot of Edinburgh and Glasgow matches this season and think both the coaches have done well to deliver players on good form to Scotland. I am quietly optimistic that Scotland could do reasonably well albeit against a very strong Welsh team."

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With days until the opening fixture in the 2009 RBS 6 Nations, Welsh legend Gareth Edwards has highlighted the competition as crucial to the chances of those players looking to claim a place on the British & Irish Lions Tour to South Africa.

The former Welsh scrum half, who knows all about selection for the Lions having toured three times, believes that for those players from across the four home unions wanting a coveted slot in the final squad this summer, now is the time to make a strong case for inclusion.

Edwards, who is an ambassador for HSBC, the Principal Partner, for the British & Irish Lions Tour to South Africa, said: "The opportunities will be there for the players involved over the coming weeks to show their skill, prowess, form and fitness. There has always been added spice to this wonderful competition in Lions year, even when I was playing, and that will very much be in evidence again this time around.

"There is no doubt that we've reached the crux in terms of selection for the Lions. It will be the player's performance over the next couple of months that will cement their cases for a place on the Tour. They will all have something to prove - it's always a special competition, even more so with the Lions at the end of it."

And whilst Edwards believes that Lions selection may not be at the forefront of the players' minds during the 'intensity and ferociousness' of the matches, he insists that players won't be able to escape the need to shine now if they are to stake a Lions claim.

He said: "Players won't be going in there thinking 'I must play well to become a Lion'; that will come secondary to playing well to win the match for their country, claiming a Grand Slam or Triple Crown. However, the bottom line is that the better your national side performs, the better it presents your case for a place in the Lions team. Players will obviously want to be the first guys to put their hands up and show Ian McGeechan's staff they've got the credentials to go on this Lions Tour."

And with more than just the usual northern hemisphere bragging rights at stake, Edwards can't wait for the RBS 6 Nations to begin: "It's always a fabulous tournament and a great, old established competition - there is just a heck of a lot to play for this year, more than usual.

"I'm looking forward to it immensely and some of the early games are a tremendous prospect - particularly the Wales - England game on the second weekend. England down in Cardiff is always a great occasion, a tough encounter and the perfect chance for the Lions management to cast an eye over any possible Lions."

HSBC, the shirt sponsor for the tour, will be working closely with the British & Irish Lions Committee to develop a programme of business-to-business, consumer and grassroots activity during the build-up to the tour.

The partnership was formally announced at a function at HSBC's global headquarters in Canary Wharf, London.

Dyfrig John, Chief Executive of HSBC in the UK, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for HSBC to be part of a great sporting event and to get involved in a range of programmes to support the growth of rugby at the grassroots level, both here and in South Africa."

David Hodgkinson, Group Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, HSBC Holdings plc, said: "The British & Irish Lions is the most prestigious name in a sport that has enormous relevance to our business, clients and our people. We look forward to working with the British & Irish Lions Committee, as well as to some fantastic rugby."

The 2009 tour is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and entertaining in the Lions' 100 year history. It will certainly be among the most evocative, with the Lions facing the reigning world champion Springboks on home soil, just as in 1997 when the Lions defied their underdog status and came away 2-1 series winners.

John Feehan of the British & Irish Lions said: "We are delighted to welcome HSBC as the Lions shirt sponsor and are looking forward to an exciting and fruitful partnership over the next two years and a successful tour in South Africa."

Four 'Lions Legends' - Martin Johnson, Gavin Hastings, Gareth Edwards and Paul Wallace - attended the announcement function.

Martin Johnson, who captained the Lions in two test series including the victorious visit to South Africa in 1997, said: "The history of the British & Irish Lions is one of the strongest and most respected in sport. For the next Lions team to be travelling to South Africa to face the current world champions will make the tour one of the greatest and most exciting of the modern era."

Gareth Edwards, who played in three Lions tours between 1968-1974, said: "The values of respect, pride and good sportsmanship are what separates rugby union from many other sports. I am delighted that HSBC recognise that and want to support the British & Irish Lions."

Gavin Hastings, who played in two Lions tours and captained the team in 1993, said: "The Lions tour is a special occasion in the world of sport. Touring as a Lion was one of the highlights of my career. With the recent global explosion of interest in the sport, the 2009 tour will be the best yet."

Paul Wallace, who played in all three Lions tests on the last tour to South Africa in 1997, said: "The 1997 Tour to South Africa was a definitive moment in my career - the series was a unique victory against the odds, and with the Springboks recent Rugby World Cup triumph, the 2009 tour is sure to be just as exhilarating. It is a wonderful test for any player to be involved with and the build up is certain to start here."

Speaking at an exclusive HSBC debate at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Tuesday night, Edwards hailed the newly crowned International Rugby Board (IRB) Player of the Year: "I think that Shane has had an absolutely fantastic few seasons, scoring regularly for Wales and proving that there is still a place in the game for the small, fast men. Shane has shown that players of his stature can still make a difference and I'm delighted that he's been recognised for his outstanding performances."

HSBC ambassador Edwards, capped ten times by the British & Irish Lions, also believes that the Lions can bring out the best in his fellow countryman: "There's no doubt that a Lions tour is a special environment where good players can become greats of the game and grow even further in the finest arena of all - and I fully expect Shane to do that next year in South Africa.

"I can't wait to see Shane play over in South Africa, on the hard quick grounds, with a good dry ball in hand. We saw glimpses of his talents this summer when Wales toured there, and I know that he will be even better as part of the Lions squad."

Edwards also likened Williams, Wales' record try scorer, to Gerald Davies, who will manage the Lions tour to South Africa next year. Edwards said: "Shane is a very similar player to Gerald and plays the game in a similar way. Thankfully I never had to face Gerald that much because he was an absolute genius at beating men and Shane is from a similar mould. The ability to beat three or four players and make things happen is vital and next year's Lions tour could very well turn on a piece of Shane Williams magic. It's often been the case in past tours that things turn on one moment and I know Shane can deliver on the biggest stage."

Edwards was joined at the HSBC debate by Rugby World Cup winning captain John Smit, who agreed with his views on the Welsh winger: "For me, Shane is one who should definitely be on the plane to South Africa - there are very few players that I look at and want on my side but he would certainly be one. He can devastate a defence, beat three or four players and make a fool of defenders. He's done it numerous times before, for a number of seasons, and will be a genuine threat in South Africa. The IRB Player of the Year award is a well deserved accolade."

HSBC, one of the largest banking and financial services organisations in the world, today announced that they are to become the Official Banking Partner of the Professional Rugby Players' Association (PRA), the representative body and collective voice of professional rugby union players in England.

The deal will see HSBC form a close association with the PRA over the next two years, with a view to providing financial assistance, support and advice to its members and building on the PRA's Player Development Programme which aims to better prepare members for life after rugby. HSBC will be heavily involved in offering the highest standard of skilled support to PRA members during their playing careers, which will better prepare members for their post-rugby careers.

HSBC Holdings plc Head of Sponsorship, Giles Morgan, said:

"HSBC is delighted to be partnering with the PRA and supporting the fantastic work that they do on behalf of the players. With the recent announcement that HSBC is the principal partner to the British & Irish Lions, the PRA partnership and the exciting grass roots and community programmes that we are developing, HSBC is delighted to be supporting Rugby Union at all levels."

Damian Hopley, CEO of the PRA, commented:

"The PRA are delighted to have finalised this partnership with HSBC as we celebrate our 10th season since formation back in 1998. The Bank's support will enable the PRA to further help our members and safeguard their future. It is tremendous that HSBC is looking to assist rugby at all levels from elite players to the grassroots of the game and we look forward to working with them for the good of our members over the coming years."

The partnership with the PRA follows closely behind HSBC's recent announcement to be Principal Partner of the British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa in 2009 and shows a continuing commitment to make a difference in key areas of the game from grass roots to elite level performance.

HSBC, the Principal Partner of the British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa in 2009, today announced four HSBC ambassadors for the tour.

Gareth Edwards, Gavin Hastings, Jason Robinson and Brian O'Driscoll will all work as HSBC ambassadors over the coming 13 months and during the tour.

Giles Morgan, Group Head of Sponsorship, HSBC Holdings plc, said, "The four ambassadors are arguably some of the finest and best loved Lions players of all time and we are delighted to be working with them over the coming year.

"The four are all tremendous role models and have an unrivalled wealth of Lions experience, having collected a total of 25 Lions caps between them. Everyone at HSBC is excited to have them on board for the tour."

Gareth Edwards first toured with the 1968 Lions to South Africa aged just 21, before going on to play a pivotal role in The Lions' first series victory in New Zealand in 1971. He returned to South Africa with the victorious 1974 Lions, where the tourists won all three Tests. Speaking on his appointment Gareth said, "The Lions have been, and always will be, a very special part of my life, and I can't wait for next summer's Tour. I am delighted to be working with HSBC as principal partner for what promises to be another exciting Lions tour."

Still holder of the record for most points scored in Lions history, Gavin Hastings toured Australia and, as captain, New Zealand with The Lions. He said, "I am incredibly proud to have represented The Lions on two tours and have some of my fondest rugby memories from my time with them. I didn't face South Africa with The Lions but having played in the 1995 Rugby World Cup with Scotland, I know what an intimidating and challenging place it can be to play rugby. It will be hugely exciting, watching The Lions return to the home of the World Champions for the first time since their historic winning tour in 1997."

Offering an English perspective on the HSBC partnership is Jason Robinson, who has been enjoying life on his farm since retiring from professional rugby in December 2007. Jason was one of the surprise packages of the 2001 tour to Australia, having only recently switched codes from rugby league to union, earning his first England rugby union cap just four months before making his Lions debut. He said, "Playing for The Lions was one of the highlights of my career - in both codes, and I am eagerly anticipating the 2009 tour. The Lions have such great tradition and history and I am excited to be involved once more - albeit without my boots this time!"

As captain of the last tour, Brian O'Driscoll fully understands the pride and passion that is still associated with The Lions today. "To play for the British & Irish Lions is a pinnacle in any player's career and I have been fortunate enough to experience two Lions tours. I am excited to be working with HSBC as we build towards the 2009 tour to South Africa."

The ambassadors will make a number of personal appearances for HSBC over the coming months, and will regularly feature on the HSBC section of the official British & Irish Lions website www.lionsrugby.com.

Giles Morgan added, "HSBC are proud of their commitment to the development of sport for young people in the local community, and will be implementing several youth rugby projects in Great Britain, Ireland and South Africa as part of their partnership with the British & Irish Lions. We will be using all of our ambassadors to help deliver these projects and are excited to see the positive impact such legends of the game will have amongst young people in both the UK and South Africa."

Former British & Irish Lions captain Gavin Hastings has issued a stark warning to players across the four home unions. Speaking at today's launch of the Scottish HSBC Rugby Festivals at Murrayfield he said, "No-one is guaranteed selection for the Lions. It is completely down to form and consistency. There isn't a quota of players from each country that the coach has to choose. It's all up to the individual players to impress the coaches and then the rest will follow."

Gavin, who is an HSBC ambassador, has watched the recent autumn internationals knowing how important on pitch performance is during a Lions season. He explained, "Lions selection is purely down to individual performance, although it does help if your team is playing well. It's simple really, if you play well then you will be selected as a matter of course."

Gavin was the last Scotsman to captain the famous Lions touring side, on the visit to New Zealand in 1993. Whilst there is no doubt that his allegiance is definitely with his home country, he knows there is no certainty that any Scots will be picked. "There is no guarantee that any Scottish players will be chosen. McGeechan doesn't have to pick a certain number of players from each of the four home unions. It is about bringing together the best group of players possible. If there are 35 Welsh or English players on that tour I don't have any issues with that so long as the Lions have the best chance of winning."

"Having said that I genuinely believe that there are a few Scots who have already thrown their hats in the ring for Lions selection. I think the Scotland front five are very impressive at the moment and are certainly in contention. Mike Blair also has impressed me with his captaincy and is in with a real chance of touring."

Reflecting on the Scottish performance against the southern hemisphere teams in November, Gavin says there is still some work to be done amongst the backs. "Scotland are still searching for some dynamism in the back row. They need to find the right blend of players although there is certainly some talent there. The whole team needs some more confidence too and I really hope that Scotland have a strong six nations campaign."

Meeting children from Tynecastle High School in Edinburgh today, Hastings explains that the grass roots element of his ambassadorial role for HSBC is particularly rewarding. "It is so great seeing the kids enjoying throwing the rugby ball about at Murrayfield, despite the cold and the sleet. The HSBC Rugby Festivals will involve hundreds of youngsters across Scotland and is a fantastic way of involving even more people in the sponsorship.

"It was a shame that the Scottish weather led to the postponement of the original launch festival with 450 children, but it will be rearranged for the New Year so the kids will still get to be involved."

England Rugby World Cup winner Jason Robinson last night joked that he may be tempted to return to professional rugby with the British & Irish Lions next summer. Speaking in his new role as HSBC ambassador for the Tour to South Africa next summer, Jason said, "I had so many wonderful memories from my rugby career but playing for the Lions was definitely one of them. The Lions is so unique that I may have to come out of retirement for next summer!"

Whilst the 34 year old from Leeds may have only been joking, he does admit that his memories of wearing the famous red jersey are very special to him.

He said, "A lions tour is truly unique. When I was selected back in 2001 I had only been on the bench for England a couple of times, and then suddenly I got the call up for the Lions. Having come from rugby league I didn't know much about the Lions and so it was a strange but exciting experience for me.

I arrived at the camp and only knew half a dozen players. I had to keep staring at their initials on their shorts to know who I was talking to!"

Jason retired from international rugby in December 2007 having been one of the most successful rugby players of both codes in recent times. Jason was joined at a special HSBC Lions debate at the Tate Britain in London last night by four other Lions Legends - Gareth Edwards, Gavin Hastings and Jason's former Lions roommate Brian O'Driscoll.

Robinson said, "That is another thing that is unique and amazing about a Lions Tour. You get to room with, and get to know players that you normally play against for your country. You create a special bond and can learn so much just from being with so many quality players from four nations. I didn't really know much about Brian - he was a young lad then and I enjoyed getting to know him. He is an amazing player and I was honoured to play under him when he captained in 2005."

Next week the British & Irish Lions committee will unveil the coach for the 2009 Lions Tour and Jason believes that there is probably only one name in the frame for the Head Coach position - Ian McGeechan of London Wasps. All four ambassadors at the event agreed that McGeechan would be their number one choice.

Robinson said, "To play rugby at that level is a great feeling but McGeechan has so much passion and really got me fired up. I didn't know much about the Lions in 2001 and yet to have McGeechan at the helm was fantastic."

Another name Jason was keen to add to the mix was his former rugby league cohort Shaun Edwards. Edwards was fundamental to Wales' recent Grand Slam and has helped Wasps win trophy after trophy at domestic level. Robinson said, "I have known Shaun for years and he has so much enthusiasm and passion. What he demanded from himself as a player is what he demands of his players now and he commands so much respect. Some of the Wasps boys have called him the heartbeat of Wasps. The Lions is something he would love to get his teeth into."

Jason is one of four HSBC ambassadors for the 2009 British & Irish Lions Tour. HSBC is the Principal Partner, and shirt sponsor, of the Tour.

British & Irish Lions legend Gavin Hastings today hailed Brian O'Driscoll as the man to lead the Lions to tour South Africa in 2009.

Speaking at an exclusive Lions HSBC event in the Leinster man's home city of Dublin, the veteran Scottish player backed O'Driscoll to reclaim the captaincy following his ill-fated trip to New Zealand with the Lions three years ago.

HSBC ambassador Hastings said: "You have to pick someone who is respected by his peers and who is likely to have a regular starting berth in the team and, for me, Brian is that man.

Hastings, capped 61 times by his country and a veteran of two touring teams, also believes that O'Driscoll is showing signs of regaining the form that has seen him tour twice with the Lions in 2001 and 2005.

He said: "You need to pick players who are in form, and following his performance for Leinster at the weekend, if you were to ask me to pick a captain now, it would be Brian O'Driscoll."

"If the Lions are to be successful this time around, you need players with strength of character and guys to lay down the law. If you look back at the last successful Lions tour in 1997, coaches like Jim Telfer and players such as Keith Wood were excellent at laying down what was required. It's all about getting the best from the players and Brian would be a fantastic man to do that."

Hastings also believes the key to a Lions series victory would be to learn lessons from the mistakes made last time around and insists coach Ian McGeechan is the right man for the job.

He said: "Finding a blend is absolutely key - you are trying to put 15 guys together who haven't played together ever, starting afresh and asking them to perform with all the history and tradition. Sir Clive Woodward took too many players in 2005 to form any kind of unit but Ian McGeechan is too shrewd and too steeped in Lions history to make the same mistake.

"You look at the guys who played in the successful 1997 tour, such as Tom Smith, Jeremy Davidson, Keith Wood, they bonded as a team and that made all the difference. Geech is sure to repeat that trick this time around and will certainly pick those who are performing at the right time, and not those with the reputations - for me, that's the key."

It has been three long years since O'Driscoll and Robinson have appeared together in the name of the British & Irish Lions, but yesterday the Ireland and Leinster centre and his former British & Irish room mate Jason Robinson came together once more in the name of the Lions.

Speaking in his new role as ambassador for the HSBC Rugby Festivals, which Robinson launched in Manchester yesterday, he admitted that he was just the same as thousands of kids growing up today without privileges or plentiful opportunities. He said, "Who would have thought that a kid from an inner city, deprived area like me could go on to achieve what I did. If I can do it anyone can do it.

"I would hope that these kids here today would see that I have proved that you don't have to come from the top rugby playing school to still go on and achieve something to be proud of. In rugby it really doesn't matter what size, shape or colour you are. In rugby there is a position for everyone - even in today's professional game."

Speaking to a group of 120 youngsters from inner cities schools in the North West Jason told them, "Today is all about just like where I came from. Playing sport in a school where no one even knew the rules of rugby union. But I was sports mad, played any sport I could, and soon became inspired to play more and more. With dreams and hard work you can achieve anything."

As a ten year old growing up in rugby league loving Leeds, Jason was inspired to pick up an oval ball by two of his school teachers from Crossflats Park Middle School in Leeds. He reflects, "Steven Ball and Mr Aspinall, who was my head teacher, were real inspirations to me back then at school. They were both really big men but were so enthusiastic for rugby that it really made me want to play."

Jason may have come into rugby union somewhat late having already proved himself as one of the world's greatest rugby league players, but his subsequent achievements in the XV a side game, make him a true inspiration to kids from both codes. "When I retired from international rugby last year one of the things I really, genuinely wanted to get involved with was some grass roots coaching, especially amongst emerging schools. Today's HSBC Rugby Festival has been all about that to me and it has been a fantastic experience for me, and hopefully for the kids as well. They were all buzzing as they left here and I hope that all of them have been inspired, even just a little, to carry on playing rugby union and achieve the best they can."

Asked what advice Jason would give to anyone aiming to follow in his enviably quick footsteps, he smiled and said, "Just enjoy it. Even if you don't end up being lucky enough to play for your country or the British Lions, you should still enjoy it."

He has represented his country at both codes, has a Rugby World Cup winners medal at home and five British & Irish Lions caps to his name, but Jason Robinson is still what you would call a modest man.

Speaking in his new role as ambassador for the HSBC Rugby Festivals, which Robinson launched in Manchester yesterday, he admitted that he was just the same as thousands of kids growing up today without privileges or plentiful opportunities. He said, "Who would have thought that a kid from an inner city, deprived area like me could go on to achieve what I did. If I can do it anyone can do it.

"I would hope that these kids here today would see that I have proved that you don't have to come from the top rugby playing school to still go on and achieve something to be proud of. In rugby it really doesn't matter what size, shape or colour you are. In rugby there is a position for everyone - even in today's professional game."

Speaking to a group of 120 youngsters from inner cities schools in the North West Jason told them, "Today is all about just like where I came from. Playing sport in a school where no one even knew the rules of rugby union. But I was sports mad, played any sport I could, and soon became inspired to play more and more. With dreams and hard work you can achieve anything."

As a ten year old growing up in rugby league loving Leeds, Jason was inspired to pick up an oval ball by two of his school teachers from Crossflats Park Middle School in Leeds. He reflects, "Steven Ball and Mr Aspinall, who was my head teacher, were real inspirations to me back then at school. They were both really big men but were so enthusiastic for rugby that it really made me want to play."

Jason may have come into rugby union somewhat late having already proved himself as one of the world's greatest rugby league players, but his subsequent achievements in the XV a side game, make him a true inspiration to kids from both codes. "When I retired from international rugby last year one of the things I really, genuinely wanted to get involved with was some grass roots coaching, especially amongst emerging schools. Today's HSBC Rugby Festival has been all about that to me and it has been a fantastic experience for me, and hopefully for the kids as well. They were all buzzing as they left here and I hope that all of them have been inspired, even just a little, to carry on playing rugby union and achieve the best they can."

Asked what advice Jason would give to anyone aiming to follow in his enviably quick footsteps, he smiled and said, "Just enjoy it. Even if you don't end up being lucky enough to play for your country or the British Lions, you should still enjoy it."