Feature: St Patrick’s Day by Former Irish Guardsman Sir Sebastian Roberts

Feature: St Patrick's Day by Former Irish Guardsman Sir Sebastian Roberts

Rick Parmar

Our Chairman, Sir Sebastian Roberts, was in the Irish Guards for many years, so with St Patrick’s Day right around the corner, we asked him a few questions about his experiences on this annual celebration…

What’s been the highlight of St Patrick’s Day for you?

The highlight was my weekend just gone, where I was Honorary Colonel of the London Irish Rifles. I presented reservists with shamrocks for the annual St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Camberwell South London. It was a great honour to be a part of this annual event.

What’s been your most memorable St Patrick’s Day moment?

My most memorable moments came when I was in the Irish Guards. For half a century the Queen Mother presented honorary shamrocks to the Irish Guardsmen every year. I was very fortunate that various members of my family and I were presented with shamrock by The Queen Mother. She was a great lady.

Where is your favourite place to celebrate St Patrick’s Day?

I’d recommend any pub or bar near an Irish Regiment or barracks. Places near Aldershot and Camberwell are always great fun with a superb atmosphere. In London, one of my favourite places is The Troubadour on Old Brompton Road in Earls Court which often has great Irish music on the night.

So who would be your favourite Irish music artist or band?

It would have to be The Dubliners. You will always hear their songs in the Irish crowd at the rugby especially during the Six Nations. One of my favourite songs is Fields of Athenry.

Which Irish sports star would you recruit to join you on the front line?

I’d pick Keith Wood (former Lions & Ireland Ruby Union captain) who I’ve had the great pleasure to meet and AP McCoy (19 time champion jockey). I’d pick them based on their passion, talent and the ability to inspire others.

A message for all the serving people and the military family for St Patrick’s Day…

Yes, I’d like to wish all the serving and military families a very happy St Patrick’s Day. Enjoy!

Click here to read more about former Irish Guardsmen, Sir Sebastian Roberts (retired Major General). Find out what made him launch The Military Mutual (insurance solutions for the military family), his military experiences with Prince William and highlights of his military career.