Ex-Harlequins and England rugby legend Jason Leonard sank a few beers last night in The Counting House pub in Bank and indulged in some good old nostalgia.
It was all part of the celebrations for London Pride’s ‘Made of London’ campaign, a series of Q&A sessions with inspirational figures from the worlds of sport and entertainment who make London proud.
Jason didn’t have to ‘prop’ up the bar but sat in front of an eager audience of die-hard rugby fans and beer lovers alike.
Once the beer tasting ended, Leonard spoke about his passion for rugby and his career, past and present, in the sport.
Announcing his long-awaited appointment as Rugby Football Union President, the World Cup winner said he was looking forward to introducing some dynamism into the 100 year old organisation.
“The most important thing is to look after the players” said Leonard, who has also put a priority on reaching out to grow the game in state schools as well as private where the game is already well established.
Making 290 appearances for Harlequins, Leonard is still a big supporter of the south London club.
However he has no intention of going into coaching, even for Harlequins, as he described himself as ‘not a patient man’.
Jason has also gave his backing to under fire England captain Chris Robshaw.
“Every time he’s been targeted he’s answered his critics,” said Leonard, “Harlequins’ shaky start is not to do with Robshaw’s form.”
Leonard spoke positively about England coach Stuart Lancaster signing a new six-year deal and the 2015 World Cup looming for England.
He said: “The pool we are in is not perfect but we have the advantage of the home fans.
“The only thing I want to see is consistency in the teams on the run up to next September. I think leading players should play every other international match, especially in the autumn internationals.”
On the subject of beer, Jason fondly discussed his local pub The Sun Inn, Richmond. Having been drinking in there for more than 20 years, it’s no wonder people have mistaken the pub for his own.
The pub is littered with memorabilia from his illustrious career, chief among them a memento of pre-professional days – Jason’s first expenses cheque for the princely sum of £15 to get him from one side of London to the other. He never actually cashed it, preferring to keep it as a souvenir.
At the end of the interview Leonard talked about his favourite places to be since he retired in 2004, with Richmond Park topping the list.
With his RFU duties beckoning, he’s bound to be a frequent visitor to Twickenham and south west London in the coming years.
Pictures courtesy of Fullers, with thanks
