London Irish Foundation Inclusion Festival Celebrates a Record Breaking Year

The London Irish Foundation held its annual Inclusion Festival on 3 December 2025, marking one of the largest and most vibrant celebrations of inclusive sport the organisation has ever delivered. The event, aligned with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, brought together hundreds of participants, carers, volunteers and community partners for a full day of accessible activities and community connection.

A Festival Designed for Everyone

This year’s festival welcomed around 270 participants with disabilities, supported by 120 carers and 45 volunteers, and featured VIP guests including Paralympic Champion Benjamin Pritchard, former Paralympian Jeanette Chippington and London Irish Rugby legend and TV presenter Topsy Ojo.

The Foundation’s aim had been to create a space where “sport has no boundaries,” and this year’s turnout and atmosphere strongly reflected that mission.

Rhys Mynott, Event Lead, said:
“Every year we try to make the festival bigger, more inclusive and more enjoyable, but this year surpassed every expectation. Seeing hundreds of people smiling, taking part, supporting each other and celebrating what inclusion truly means was incredibly special. It’s a reminder of why events like this matter so much.”

A Growing Community Impact

The 2025 edition built on the success of previous years, including the 2022 festival, prior to a London Irish rugby match at the G-tech Community Stadium. After the festival, over 100 participants joined us to watch London Irish face Newcastle Falcons, culminating in a resounding victory that perfectly capped off an incredible day. Over time, the event continued to grow in size, diversity and accessibility, becoming a key date in the region’s inclusive sport calendar.

Participants engaged in inclusive games such as walking football, new age bowls, cornhole, disk throwing and quoits, many of which encouraged teamwork, confidence and social interaction. Feedback from attendees highlighted the sense of belonging, enjoyment and empowerment that the festival created.

Strong Support from Local Partners

• Pump Technology Ltd – who have continued their support since 2021 and never fail to deliver when it comes to this incredible day.
• Maidenhead United – who have been involved since 2022 and continue to support the festival, bringing an army of volunteers to help make everyone’s day special.
• Leisure Focus – who hosted the festival for a third year straight, providing us with Braywick Leisure Centre as a safe and welcoming space for the event.

Their combined efforts have been invaluable in helping the festival break down barriers to sport and physical activity for people with disabilities, ensuring it remains a fully accessible and welcoming event for all.

Andy Keast, Foundation CEO, added:
“The Inclusion Festival is one of the most important events in our calendar because it brings our community together in the purest and most powerful way. The growth of this event shows the demand for inclusive sport, and we are proud to lead the way in creating opportunities for every individual to feel valued, supported and part of something bigger.”

A Celebration of Inclusion and Community

By the end of the day, organisers and participants alike described the festival as a resounding success. Smiling faces, competitive fun and a powerful sense of community characterised the event, reinforcing the London Irish Foundation’s belief that inclusive sport does much more than build skills; it builds community, confidence and connection.

We extend our sincere thanks to all our volunteers, whose time, energy and commitment helped make the day truly exceptional for a wonderful group of participants.