Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School (BVGS) celebrated the start of the annual Six Nations rugby tournament, by hosting their first inaugural Six Nations dinner.

Featuring a special guest appearance from ex-Wales and Barbarians rugby legend, Phil Bennett, guests were treated to a delicious three-course meal, before hearing speeches from the former star. 

Taking place at BVGS’ Big School, some 110 guests attended the event, with all proceeds from the evening going towards improving the school’s facilities and services.

Upon arrival, guests enjoyed some initial refreshments at the bar and took the opportunity to network and mingle with the other attendees, before taking their seats for the sit-down meal.

Between the starter and main course, tables attempted to guess Phil’s combined Welsh and English team from the 1970’s to present day, before Corporate Partnership Development Director, Brian Davies, thanked guests for their support and discussed the success of the school’s rugby teams.  

Once food had finished, guests enjoyed an excellent speech from Phil detailing stories from his playing days about fellow Welshman Bobby Windsor and all-time Lion great, Willie John McBride.

Phil ended his speech with a simple yet powerful message to play the game in the right spirit, allowing youngsters to enjoy the sport, without taking it too seriously.  

The evening then ended with a raffle and auction, which both raised a fantastic amount of money for the school.
Development Director, Brian Davies, commented: “There had been a lot of preparation in the months leading up to the event, so it was great to see the evening run smoothly, and guests having a good time. 

“It was a great honour to welcome such an iconic ex-professional like Phil Bennett to the school, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed hearing some of his incredible tales from his playing days.

“Of course, we’d like to thank everyone who attended for their fantastic support, and a special mention to Karl Ward who was instrumental in helping organise the event.

“We managed to raise a significant amount of money that will go towards supporting the school and improving the experiences of our current and future students.

“With this being the first event of its kind at the school, it’s exciting times ahead as we look forward to hosting another amazing Six Nations Rugby Evening next year.”