Cornish Pirates: Richard ‘Dicky’ Evans knighted
IN terms of rugby royalty, the Cornish Pirates' Richard ‘Dicky' Evans certainly ranks among the historical greats.
As the financial force behind his hometown club for well over two decades, Evans' commitment to firstly Penzance-Newlyn, then the rebranded Cornish Pirates, is clear.
And now he has achieved recognition for his loyalty to the club where he first played along with his services to business and charity.
Amid the historic grandeur of Windsor Castle – and accompanied by his wife Jytte and their three children Louisa, Ross and Emma – Evans received his knighthood from King Charles himself.
It was to the Order of Saint Michael and Saint George.
Widely regarded as the man who helped save the Pirates in the 1990s, Evans has since contributed millions of pounds – on and off the field – to a club, which last season finished runners-up in the Championship.
Combining his love for rugby with the success of his many businesses in Kenya, where he spends much of his time, Evans has helped to transform the lives of so many.
Personal battles
Regarded as a ‘man of the people', Evans has not allowed the 2011 diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease to stand in his way. Instead, he remains fiercely determined to deliver on all fronts, including the Pirates.
Although his long-term wish to build a Stadium for Cornwall never hit fruition, he has continued to support the Pirates with a ‘Sunset Plan' after which he aims to hand on the baton to new owners.
That is for the future, but for now we should all arise for ‘Sir Dicky' who has established a website entitled livetobe100yearold.com with the stared aim of helping like-minded individuals combat the downside of degenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's, while living life to the full.
“I couldn't be more surprised or honoured,” said Evans on the news of his knighthood. “I have been blessed throughout my life with the support of my family, friends and thousands of wonderful people with whom I have worked and played.
He continued: “I am deeply grateful to his His Majesty King Charles for conferring this honour upon me. We both have deep rooted connections to Cornwall and to Kenya and I hope that this award will further highlight the beauty and strength of both lands and their people.”
Following his investiture, Evans – together with around 70 close friends and family – enjoyed a Parliamentary Reception hosted by Lord Michael Spencer, an old friend and fellow Anglo-Kenyan.
Upcoming season
Meanwhile, Pirates have boosted their squad ahead of the new season by bringing in prop Billy Keast. He arrives from Premiership side Exeter Chiefs on dual-registered terms.
Cornishman Keast, 27, previously played for the Pirates in the 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons, amassing 31 appearances.
Joint head coach Alan Paver said: “We're delighted Billy will be coming with us this season, as we need the experience he can offer in the front row. We expect the young guys to really enjoy his knowledge.”
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