A FORMER Warrington Wolves player turned multi-million-pound logistics entrepreneur has attended The King’s Trust 50th Anniversary Garden Party, held in Buckingham Palace Gardens.
Today Team founder and managing director Jamie Boyd, 44, was among invited guests who gathered to celebrate five decades of the charity’s work supporting young people across the UK.
The event also coincided with the 21st anniversary of Today Team – the Risley-headquartered logistics firm that Jamie established in 2005 after a knee injury ended his professional rugby career.
“It doesn’t seem that long ago since I was stood in front of the Trust’s panel in Chester as a 24-year-old lad – asking for a £3,000 loan to lease a van and start a courier business,” recalled Jamie, whose invitation reflects his ongoing contribution to the Trust as an ambassador.
“Over the years, it’s been really fulfilling to give something back by public speaking and mentoring young people who are starting their own businesses through the Trust. It’s a brilliant organisation that gives people the confidence and support to take that first step, and I’ll be forever grateful for the help it gave me to take mine.”
Pavlos, Crown Prince of Greece, joined King Charles on the Palace steps for the British national anthem – signalling the beginning of the festivities attended by celebrity guests including Dame Helen Mirren, Damien Lewis and Myleene Klass. His Majesty also took a turn behind the DJ decks alongside Christian St Louis and Idris Elba.
“Walking past the likes of Rob Brydon and Rod Stewart was pretty surreal,” admitted Jamie. “But after a busy period in the business and becoming a dad to a very lively nine-month-old, I especially appreciated the opportunity to relax, have a cup of tea and wander around the Palace Gardens.”
The visit proved to be a deeply reflective moment for the entrepreneur, who started his playing career at Crosfields ARLFC.
“Having to walk away from the sport I love after making the first team at Wolves was devastating,” admitted Jamie, who continues to support both his former clubs through sponsorship initiatives with Today Team.
“Back then, I could never have imagined a future that would see me attending a garden party at Buckingham Palace while celebrating 21 years in business. Building Today Team from the ground up has given me a sense of purpose and allowed me to create a legacy beyond my playing career, which makes moments like this even more meaningful.”
