Relive the iconic memories of the Lions with the Daily Mirror's Special Edition
A host of moments have rightly gone into rugby folklore from those wearing the famous red jersey. This publication celebrates many of those incredible memories – the good, the bad, and the sometimes ugly.
WHEN Andy Farrell's Lions head to Australia this summer you can guarantee iconic memories will be made.
There is nothing quite like stamping your name into the Lions history books - and in a new, stunning Daily Mirror special edition, we take a look back at the most iconic moments in Lions history. You can buy our special edition here
Down the decades, pretty much in every single battle with New Zealand, South Africa and the Wallabies over the half century and more, the Lions have created a whole host of magical memories which have projected their players into rugby folklore.
As the great Martin Johnson once said, no-one remembers Six Nations or Tri-Nations matches from 12 years ago. Everyone recalls what happened with the Lions though, and stretching into yesteryear as well.
The iconic Class of 1971, dominated by a host of Welsh greats including Gareth Edwards, Barry John and JPR Williams, are still revered as the only team to beat New Zealand.
Fully 54 years on, their wonderful exploits still last the test of time.
Same with Willie John McBride's 1974 Invincibles, a barnstorming team who fought fire with fire. They introduced their famous '99' call to meet violence with violence, and played some truly dazzling rugby inbetween the chaos to emerge unbeaten on their South African tour.
Who can forget Finlay Calder's Class of 1989? 'Finlay's Fighters' they were dubbed, the only Lions team to lose the first Test and still emerge victorious after three epic battles with Australia.
How about Jeremy Guscott's drop goal to down world champions South Africa in 1997, a tour made even more momentous by the brilliant behind the scenes TV documentary which took us right inside the Lions team room.
We've witnessed the try-scoring emergence of Brian 'Waltzing O'Driscoll' versus the Wallabies in 2001, the huge controversy after he was spear- tackled out of the next tour in New Zealand, the brutal 2009 'Battle of Loftus Versfeld' with the Springboks, which saw five Lions stars hospitalised.
More recently, we've had further O'Driscoll controversy, an entire Irish nation outraged as he was axed from the final 2013 Test in Australia. Leigh Halfpenny rescued the day for Warren Gatland with a stunning solo show as the Lions romped to a resounding victory.
There was also what was dubbed 'the greatest piece of captaincy in rugby history' as Sam Warburton gently persuaded referee Roman Poite to backtrack on a penalty call which ensured a drawn rubber with New Zealand in 2017.
Amid all of that drama, particular Lions moments have rightly gone into rugby folklore. This Mirror special edition celebrates many of those incredible memories – the good, the bad, and the sometimes ugly.
The Class of 2025 are about to make more iconic memories, building upon the many deeds of legends from the past who are featured in this special edition.
Pride of Lions will be on sale in participating retailers from May 14, 2025. You can buy it online here. Online postage and packaging costs apply.
Pride of Lions Special Edition
Relive the iconic memories of the Lions with the Daily Mirror's Special Edition
A host of moments have rightly gone into rugby folklore from those wearing the famous red jersey. This publication celebrates many of those incredible memories – the good, the bad, and the sometimes ugly.
Pride of Lions will be on sale in participating retailers from May 14, 2025. You can buy it online here. Online postage and packaging costs apply.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Wales Online
an hour ago
- Wales Online
12 brilliant SUP paddleboarding locations to try in Wales
12 brilliant SUP paddleboarding locations to try in Wales What could be better than getting a core workout on the water whilst watching the world go by? Wales is home to some superb paddleboarding hotspots (Image: Portia Jones ) Stand-up paddleboarding (or SUP), has exploded in popularity in recent years and is one of the fastest-growing water sports in the UK. What could be better than getting a core workout on the water whilst watching the world go by? The benefit of a SUP sesh is that it's a fun, low-impact activity that can be enjoyed solo (for pro paddlers), with family and friends and is suited to most fitness levels. Wales is home to some superb paddleboarding hotspots, including charming canals, rivers and dramatic coastlines. With so many scenic locations to choose from, there's surely an ideal SUP spot near you. In this guide, we'll show you some of the best places where you can give paddleboarding a try in Wales and also give advice on how to stay safe and minimise your impact on the environment. Ready? Hop on board. Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal This is one of my favourite spots to SUP (Image: Portia Jones ) Winding its leafy way through the Welsh countryside, the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal is often dubbed one of Britain's prettiest paddles, and for good reason. It stretches a whopping 35 miles from Brecon down to the Five Locks Basin in Cwmbran, with a further seven miles of unnavigable canal to Newport on the main line and seven miles to Cwmcarn on the Crumlin Arm. Article continues below Up north, the canal is in the capable hands of Glandŵr Cymru (aka the Canal & River Trust in Wales), while the lower stretches, from Pontypool south, are looked after by a trio of local councils: Torfaen, Newport, and Caerphilly. It's a bit of a patchwork, but it all comes together to create one seriously scenic waterway, largely thanks to tireless volunteers and campaigners. You can go on a guided paddleboarding tour between Five Locks and Pontymoile with the pros at Sup Hike Explore, a relatively new outdoor company specialising in guided SUP trips in locations across Wales. The Five Locks to Pontymoile route is one of several guided trips Kris offers to aspiring and experienced paddlers who want to SUP with a pro. This scenic section is a boater's favourite and a paddleboarder's playground. It's packed with bridges and tunnels where you'll need to drop to your knees, flick on your headtorch, and stay on your board while navigating in the dark. You'll also spot kingfishers and herons and even a few non-native terrapins as you glide along. Pop in for a pint at the waterside Open Hearth Pub and grab lunch at The Canal Boat Café. Read my full review of paddleboarding on this pretty canal here. The River Wye Stretching 134 miles and traversing the border of Wales and England, the River Wye offers relaxed paddleboarding in scenic surroundings. (Image: Portia Jones ) Stretching 134 miles and traversing the border of Wales and England, the River Wye offers relaxed paddleboarding in scenic surroundings. The Wye is one of the few rivers that's easily navigable by canoe or kayak for over 100 miles, with long stretches that are perfect for stand-up paddleboard (SUP) adventures. Along the Wye, paddleboarders can opt for half-day, full-day, or multi-day trips, depending on their experience level. One of the most picturesque paddle routes for adventurous paddlers is from Monmouth to Ross on Wye in England. This two-day trip takes paddlers past cosy, riverside pubs, wooded valleys and a plethora of wildlife. First-time paddle boarders might want to book a guided river trip or a taster session with qualified professionals. Inspire2adventure offers SUP basics on the Wye as well as a 'mega sup', which can hold eight people for a unique family day out. Lake Vrynwy While you can't swim in the reservoir (shame as it looks so inviting), you can hop on a SUP board or a kayak and paddle around the still waters (Image: Portia Jones ) Lake Vrynwy is an excellent place to SUP or hike through the 24,000-acre RSPB Reserve, with viewpoints and hides around the lake offering opportunities to observe the amazing variety of birds and scenery. This under-the-radar destination in Powys, with a forest-hugged reservoir, is packed with hiking trails and wildlife and is where you can try watersports on serene waters. While you can't swim in the reservoir (shame as it looks so inviting), you can hop on a SUP board or a kayak and paddle around the still waters. Bethania Adventure is situated on the opposite side of the lake from the hotel and offers rentals of canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and a sailboat. Prices start from £15 for a SUP board and £20 per hour for a double kayak. After your paddle, head to Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa for a pint on the terrace overlooking the reservoir. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Cardiff Bay Experience a unique perspective of Cardiff Bay and its waterways by joining a Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) experience at the Cardiff International White Water Centre (CIWW). (Image: Portia Jones ) Experience a unique perspective of Cardiff Bay and its waterways by joining a Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) experience at the Cardiff International White Water Centre (CIWW). There's a range of taster sessions, courses, SUP yoga and socials at this dynamic water sports hub in the city. Glide through a lively cityscape on your SUP board past bridges, residential flats and the striking Principality Stadium as you paddle down urban rivers. Want to launch your SUP on the Rivers Taff and Ely? Ensure that you only launch from Cardiff Harbour Authority-approved sites. Also, ensure that you've completed an approved 'Intro To SUP' course before you take to the water. Looking to SUP with new friends? Cardiff SUP Social sessions are for paddlers who know their way around a T-grip and depart from the Cardiff International White Water centre in Cardiff Bay, led by a qualified professional. In the summer, these social SUP sessions leave CIWW on Wednesday evenings 6-8pm and on Saturday or Sunday mornings, when the wind and water quality in the bay allow. Contact CIWW directly to book onto the SUP Social sessions Book now! Bala Lake Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) at sunset (Image: Visit Wales ) Beautiful Bala Lake [Llyn Tegid] is Wales' largest natural lake at over four miles long and a mile wide. Full of local legends, it's situated in the 'Lake District' of southern Snowdonia and boasts the most inviting, clear water for paddling. The lake is famed for its impressive mountain scenery, rare wildlife and excellent fishing opportunities. In addition to being a SUP hub, the lake also offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities for sailing, canoeing, and wild swimming. Looking to hire a SUP? Bala Watersports provide SUP equipment hire for pros and instruction for aspiring paddlers. Don't forget to obtain your lake permit from the Lake Warden's Centre before launch. The Lake Warden can request to see permits at any time, so be prepared. Milford Haven At Milford Beach Activity Centre, you can experience stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking from the Hot Water Slip a (Image: Portia Jones ) From a 17th-century Quaker whaling town and shipbuilding outpost to a modern marina, Milford Haven is now a chic destination with a renovated waterfront packed with indie shops and restaurants and has watersports that launch from the harbour. At Milford Beach Activity Centre, you can experience stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking from the Hot Water Slip and explore the historic Milford Haven Waterway shorelines surrounding Milford Haven. This local business operates out of a blue shipping container overlooking Milford Beach, offering guided tours, stand-up paddleboard rentals, and kayak hire. Go on a guided tour of the estuary with their experienced guides to gain a deeper understanding of the area's history, including the Vikings who settled here, the Welsh fishing industry, the town's military connections, and its past industries. Mawddach Estuary, Barmouth This picture-perfect estuary offers ideal paddleboarding conditions in Barmouth, set against a mountainous backdrop. (Image: Daily Post Wales ) The River Mawddach meets the sea at the sandy bays of the Mawddach Estuary. This picture-perfect estuary offers ideal paddleboarding conditions in Barmouth, set against a mountainous backdrop. Launch your SUP board and soak up the delicious views of the harbour, Southern Eryri peaks and the Grade II* listed railway viaduct. SUP Barmouth offer a range of stand-up paddleboard lessons and tours in Barmouth Harbour and the Mawddach Estuary and caters for all ages, including beginners and seasoned paddle pros. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire Barafundle Bay (Image: Getty Images ) Popular Barafundle Bay is regularly listed as one of the top beaches in the world and is a superb place to SUP in Pembrokeshire. This secluded beach can be a challenging place to paddle as it's only accessible on foot. The crystal-clear blue waters and golden sands are definitely worth the trip, though. Keep your eye out for a wealth of wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and basking sharks as you merrily SUP along. Outer Reef Surf School offers a guided paddle trip from Stackpole Quay to Barafundle Bay, taking paddlers past epic cliffs and caves in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Drawing on 25 years of local expertise, these SUP pros have crafted exclusive SUP routes that showcase Pembrokeshire's hidden treasures. Sup beyond the typical tourist trails, revealing secluded coves and pristine waterways that most visitors never discover. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced paddleboarder, their ISA-qualified instructors ensure a safe, enriching adventure suitable for all skill levels. Llandegfedd Lake Llandegfedd Reservoir (Image: Crown Copyright / Visit Wales ) Llandegfedd Lake is a spectacular 434-acre reservoir with a water sports and visitor centre on-site. Set amongst the rolling hills of the Usk valley, you'll find an array of activities at the Welsh Water-owned and operated lake, including paddle sports, sailing and open water swimming. The lake is fully equipped for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) activities and even features changing rooms with hot showers, as well as a café where you can grab a post-paddle brew. Paddle pros can launch their own SUP board on the lake, and there's also a brand-new SUP kit available for hire. For beginners, Llandegfedd offer expert tuition and courses to get your paddle skills up to scratch. Llangorse Lake Paddleboarding on Llangorse Lake (Image: Portia Jones ) Llangorse Lake is in the heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons National Park) and is known for being the largest natural lake in South Wales. Here, you can try your hand at fishing, canoeing, sailing and now paddleboarding in an idyllic setting. In addition to being incredibly scenic, the lake is also rich in nutrients, supporting a diverse range of aquatic plants and wildlife. Whether you explore the area by SUP or on foot, there are plenty of natural wonders to observe here. The lake is privately owned, and you'll need to buy a pass to SUP with your own board. Alternatively, seasonal SUP passes are also available onsite at the Caravan Park Shop. Lakeside Boat Hire has SUP boards for hire, so you can discover the natural wonders of the lake without breaking the bank. Cardigan Bay SUP life in Cardigan Bay (Image: Keith Morris ) SUP alongside seals and dolphins in the marine life haven, Cardigan Bay in Ceredigion. Check the conditions before setting out to ensure it's calm enough to float around the coast and explore secluded bays. Coastlines and river estuaries in the area offer a variety of stand-up paddleboard (SUP) routes for experienced paddle enthusiasts. Discover Cardigan's Celtic Routes and heritage along the way with abandoned limekilns and hillforts as you gracefully glide around the peninsula, hopefully spotting lots of wildlife. Cardigan Bay Watersports offers paddleboard hire and lessons for first-timers, utilising Red Paddleboards for tuition, which generally provide good SUP stability. The Gower Peninsula The Gower coastline is a perfect place to try your hand at paddleboarding if there is no swell and low winds. (Image: Portia Jones ) The Gower coastline is a perfect place to try your hand at paddleboarding if there is no swell and low winds. There are a few gorgeous Gower spots where you can launch your SUP, including Caswell Bay, Mumbles and Langland Bay. Crashing waves and tidal patterns make paddleboarding on the coast a tad more challenging than on lakes and rivers, so be fully prepared. If you're new to paddleboarding, check out guided trips or courses before heading to the beach with your board so that you stay safe on the choppy waters. Stand Up Paddle Gower offers a range of courses and trips along the Gower coastline, where you'll explore parts of the coastline you've never seen before. These SUP tours are suitable for paddlers with a relatively 'good' level of fitness and experience in a variety of conditions, or who have at least had a few lessons or have paddled with them on SUP CLUB jaunts. After a SUP sesh, have lunch at Rok Restaurant in Bracelet Bay. On the menu you'll find beautifully presented small plates of goat's cheese and grilled pea asparagus, salt & vinegar monkfish scampi, lemon mayonnaise and Pembrokeshire potato salad with new season greens. How to Get Started with SUP and how to stay safe Anything involving water can turn risky if you don't take the right precautions and are not fully prepared (Image: The Lake ) Stand-up paddleboarding is a brilliant way to get out on the water and enjoy the outdoors, and it's generally a safe sport suited to a wide range of ages and abilities. But anything involving water can turn risky if you don't take the right precautions and are not fully prepared. Getting into a safety-first mindset before you even step on your board is a smart move and can make all the difference. To help you paddle with confidence, we've put together some easy tips on kit, safety and what to know before you set off Kit You'll Need Types of paddleboards: Touring boards – longer and designed for covering distances efficiently. Inflatable boards – easy to store and carry; perfect for most paddlers. Hard boards – offer better performance but are heavier and less portable. All-round boards – stable and ideal for beginners or casual paddling. Touring boards – longer and designed for covering distances efficiently. Inflatable boards – easy to store and carry; perfect for most paddlers. Hard boards – offer better performance but are heavier and less portable. All-round boards – stable and ideal for beginners or casual paddling. Essential items: Adjustable paddle Leash (always use one) Buoyancy aid or personal flotation device (PFD) Waterproof case for your phone Appropriate clothing for the water temperature Dry bag for spare kit or snacks Staying Safe on the Water Why not join a SUP social? (Image: Mark Lewis ) Always use a paddleboard with a leash – it keeps you attached to your board if you fall off. Wear a personal flotation device that allows you to move freely while paddling. One person per board – don't share unless you are taking part in an organised 'mega SUP' session. Take your mobile in a waterproof case – if you're in trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Paddleboarding with a friend is safer and more fun. Going solo? Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back. Check the weather and tide times before you set off. Paddleboards are easily blown offshore. Give your board and gear a quick safety check before you head out. Ensure everything is in good condition. If you're new to paddleboarding, book a taster session or a course to learn the basics. Got Your Own Board? If you're paddling on canals, rivers, or lakes in England and Wales, you'll need a waterways licence for areas managed by the Canal & River Trust and other authorities. You can get one from Paddle Cymru. Article continues below A Paddle Cymru membership gives you an annual waterways licence, so you're covered to paddle on licensed waters across England and Wales. It also provides up-to-date information on where to paddle, what to expect on the water, and downloadable route guides.
Powys County Times
2 hours ago
- Powys County Times
Powys village school wins Welsh language gold award
A village primary school that is in walking distance of the English border is celebrating after becoming the third school in Powys to win a prestigious Welsh language award. Carreghofa Primary School on the outskirts of Llanymynech is now the proud owners of the Cymraeg Campus Gold Award after working hard to achieve several targets that not only look to improve Welsh within the school, but within the local community too. The award is part of the Cymraeg Campus Language Charter which was specifically created to develop Welsh in English-medium schools. The school's Welsh committee, 'Y Criw Cymraeg', with the support of Welsh co-ordinator Rachel Hill, create initiatives and displays to promote the use of Welsh, and helped staff develop their Welsh language skills. READ MORE | School campus in Powys set to begin process of becoming Welsh all-through site A big part of promoting Welsh in school is meeting Welsh-speaking visitors to the school and taking part in activities and workshops. During the past few months, the school have welcomed many visitors, including Wrexham AFC footballer Rebecca Pritchard, triathlete Deri McCluskey, singer Mr Phormula and actor Llion Williams. Pupils also held a cake sale to raise money to buy recordable teddy bears. Local care homes received the bears which pupils had recorded familiar Welsh phrases and questions for residents. Year 5 and 6 helped organise a digital 'Guide to Llanymynech ' which can be accessed through QR codes around the village in Welsh and English. A book containing stories written by Years 3,4,5 and 6 pupils about the Welsh Not was delivered to a local café, and a Welsh language display board was created for the village hall. The school also organised Welsh games for nursery-age pupils who attend Owlets, Border Preschool and Julie's Family Daycare. A group of Year 5 and 6 pupils also won the local 'Cwis Dim Clem' competition, which was organised by Menter Maldwyn across Montgomeryshire, with Carreghofa finishing in first place. The school has been invited to an awards evening in July after winning a Welsh Heritage Award, recognising their efforts to promote Welsh language and culture in the area. Welsh co-ordinator Rachel Hill, who was proud of the children, said: 'It has been hugely rewarding to see our children become so passionate about the Welsh language and culture. Receiving the gold award is like the icing on the cake.' Headteacher Claire Pritchard was also very pleased with the gold award. 'I am proud of all the children's efforts to achieve this award,' she said. 'Mrs Hill alongside her Criw have ensured all of our children enjoy learning Welsh and are proud to be part of a school in Wales.'
BBC News
2 hours ago
- BBC News
'Like Ireland v Bulls' - depth key to Leinster's URC win
Leinster's strength in depth has long been the envy of many squads in the United Rugby Championship and it once again came to the fore in Saturday's final win against the missing three injured Lions in the form of Tadhg Furlong, Hugo Keenan and Jamison Gibson-Park, the Irish province still fielded an incredible nine players who will travel to Australia with Andy Farrell's squad. Garry Ringrose, Josh van der Flier, James Lowe, Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Joe McCarthy, James Ryan and Jack Conan all started while Ronan Kelleher came off the bench in the comfortable 32-7 victory against the Bulls in Dublin to end the province's four-year trophy also had another eight players that will be part of Paul O'Connell's Ireland squad for this summer's tests against Georgia and in All Black Jordie Barrett, Springbok RG Snyman and French international Rabah Slimani and that means that young scrum half Fintan Gunne was the only uncapped player in the match-day squad. 'They only had 22 internationals!' Bulls head coach Jake White was typically dry in his post-match press conference when addressing the quality that his opposite number Cullen could call upon. "I said during the week that Leinster would have 23 internationals, but it wasn't quite so bad, they only had 22!" he joked."I have said repeatedly that it is like bringing a knife to a gunfight. "We have plenty of experienced players, but we finished the game with eight non-internationals and Leo is able to throw on the likes of RG Snyman for a run-around. It is like Ireland v the Bulls out there."Two of Leinster's four tries were scored by Irish stalwarts turned Lions, with captain Conan getting the first and back row partner van der Flier the third. Barrett's beautifully improvised effort was sandwiched between the two as Leinster blitzed the South Africans in the opening 22 minutes, before shutting them out at half-time and going on to pick up a comfortable win after Gunne's late try. Fitness scares and good performances in mixed bag for Lions contingent Those on 'Lions watch' would have been concerned with the late withdrawal of Gibson-Park but Cullen was upbeat about the scrum half's fitness."Jamison picked up a bit of a knock on his glute in last week's semi-final and he just couldn't shake it off. It's nothing too serious so he'll be ok for the Lions," he row Ryan appeared to be limping slightly clutching the bottom of his back when he was substituted two minutes after the did reappear at full-time to join his teammates in collecting their medals and Cullen was also upbeat about his health."James certainly looked alright celebrating in the dressing room!"There is less than a week until the Lions kick off their summer adventure with a warm-up game at the Aviva Stadium against much game time the Leinster players get against the Pumas remains to be seen but they will certainly bring with them an air of positivity when they join the camp. Cullen is looking forward to a summer spent watching his charges on the world stage."A big part of what we do here is player development, so we are very proud of all the boys heading away this summer. "They have all earned it and I'm looking forward to keeping a keen eye on them when they are away."While Cullen and the Leinster staff can put their feet up for a couple of months, the show goes on for a large chunk of his talented squad and they will be hoping they can bring their success in blue to red and green respectively.
