Cornish Pirates’ 20-Year Celebration: Rugby Legends, Inspiration, and a Night to Remember

The Cornish Pirates marked two decades of history with a spectacular 20 Years Anniversary Celebration Dinner at the Alverton Hotel in Truro. Organised in association with the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, the event promised an evening of nostalgia—and it delivered.

📷Cornish Pirates 20th Anniversary Dinner

The Alverton Hotel

Picture by Benjamin Gilbert

Photo: Simon Shaw addresses the gathering – Credit: Benji Gilbert

A Star-Studded Evening

Cornwall Ambassador Shane Solomon welcomed guests to a fully booked celebration featuring a champagne reception, a two-course meal, live music, guest speakers, and an auction. Rugby greats were in attendance, adding to the night’s prestige.

The event’s lead guest speaker, Simon Shaw, MBE, a former lock forward for Bristol, London Wasps, Toulon, England, and the British Lions, entertained the audience with a speech that was both inspirational and often very amusing.

Cornish rugby was also well represented, with Martin Haag, a former player for Bath, Cornwall, the Pirates, and England, taking to the stage to share his thoughts.

Insights from the Coaches

Adding to the night’s highlights, Ross Hancock hosted a Q&A session with Cornish Pirates’ joint head coaches Gavin Cattle and Alan Paver, giving fans a unique insight into the team’s journey and future.

The event was a resounding success, blending nostalgia with excitement for the future of the Cornish Pirates.

📷Cornish Pirates 20th Anniversary Dinner

The Alverton Hotel

Picture by Benjamin Gilbert

Photo: Martin Haag, Alan Paver, and Gavin Cattle – Credit: Benji Gilbert