Simon Weston, the Army veteran and activist, was our special guest at the Leicester Tigers Business Club at Mattioli Woods Welford Road this week.

Recounting how his life changed after suffering horrific injuries as a 20-year-old Welsh Guard during the Falklands War, how he recovered physically and mentally, and how he took that same drive into his life afterwards, Simon said: “There are always opportunities, even in the darkest moments, you can succeed and overcome.”

A keen rugby player as a prop in his youth and a big supporter of the game in Wales, Simon was also able to relate to his own experiences in how people have had to deal with the challenges presented through the Covid pandemic, adding: “I understand where people have been with the uncertainty, the lack of confidence in what was going on and the frustration.”

Supported by club partners Mattioli Woods, this was the opening ‘in-person’ gathering since the start of lockdown last year following ‘virtual’ meetings with recent guests Chris Kamara and Barry Hearn.

The event attracted 85 guests, following Covid guidelines throughout, and enjoying lunch while also having an opportunity to network while outside in the stadium bowl.

The next event is on Wednesday, June 30 with boxing world champion Dave Haye as the special guest in the stadium.

As this follows the June 21 date set out in the government roadmap out of Covid, it is hoped this can be a full Business Club experience, with lunch, in-person networking as well as the opportunity to listen to the guest speaker.

Current Business Club members can purchase guest places for June 30 at the normal rate.

If you are not yet a member, Business Club membership for 2021/22 is available now at £250 + VAT per person which will also include admission to the David Haye date.

Current members will have until close of play on Wednesday, June 30 June to renew for next season at their current rate.