The Author

The LIONS: The Complete History of the British and Irish Rugby Union Team is written by David Walmsley, whose great-grandfather played in the team that won Ireland's first Triple Crown, and who has been a journalist and sportswriter for more than 10 years, producing work for newspapers, magazines, books, television and the internet.

Formerly chief reporter at Rugby News magazine, he has also worked for the BBC and freelanced for a range of UK national newspapers including The Independent, the Sunday Times and The Guardian.

He is currently content provider for the official British and Irish Lions website www.lionsrugby.com. The LIONS will be his sixth book; previous titles include The Lions of Ireland and The Spirit of Rugby.

The Consultant Editor

Willie John McBride is nothing short of a legend. He is also a professional speaker and Consultant Editor for The LIONS. He toured with The Lions five times, was a member of the famous 1971 tour to New Zealand, and captain in South Africa in 1974 when his team were the first to tour the country undefeated. His 63 caps for Ireland and a record of 17 for the The Lions unquestionably makes him the greatest of all the Lions.

The Signatories

All copies will be individually signed by four Lions legends, as well as players representing South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, making The Lions a definitive piece of the team's history.

The first 500 customers to order Classic Leather copies are guaranteed to have their books signed by Willie John McBride, John Dawes, Brian Lochore, Morné du Plessis, John Eales, Bill Beaumont and Gavin Hastings.

(clockwise from top left) John Dawes, John Eales and Willie John McBride add their signatures to The LIONS.