Meet the People Behind the Event

Sue Liburd MBE DL

Co-Chair VE80 Lincoln

In addition, Sue is the Managing Director of Sage Blue, a Director for the British West India Regiments Heritage Trust and a Deputy Lieutenant for Lincolnshire.

Sue is dedicated to reclaiming narratives, that address historical inaccuracies and highlight the often-overlooked contributions of Black individuals and women in military history. She aims to educate future generations about the complex histories that shaped the freedoms and choices available to people in the UK today. By fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse influences on military heritage, Sue ensures that these vital contributions are recognised and celebrated, enriching our collective understanding of history and its impact on modern society.

Nicky van der Drift OBE

CEO International Bomber Command Centre

Nicky has led the IBCC project from the front since 2012. Although originally trained in hospitality and catering most of her career has been spent in sales, PR and marketing across a variety of platforms and a particular focus, in the last twenty-five years, on project management for tourism and events.

She has been responsible for raising funds through grant applications and generating public and private donations, PR and marketing, organising events and overseeing the whole of the design and construction. She has also presented the project to like-minded organisations across the UK, Europe and the Commonwealth.

Eamonn Hogan

Rugby Festival Director VE80 Lincoln

Eamonn served 12 years in the RAF where he grew as a rugby coach with RAF Scotland, head coach of RAF Germany and later becoming Head Coach of a Combined Services rugby side. Upon leaving the service, Eamonn balanced his role as a stay-at-home Dad with working as a professional rugby coach plying his trade locally to Lincolnshire but also in several countries around the world.

Eamonn comes to VE80 Tournament as a proud member of our host club, Lincoln RFC, having been with the club since 1998.

John Dennison

Co Chair VE80 Lincoln

President Francourt Events & Chairman World Rugby Memorial

Francourt Events has been organising events for schools, clubs and associations in France since 2017. Francourt works with established tour operator partners to provide unique and enjoyable events tailor made to client needs, along with their own regular events. The company is based in Laon, France.

The World Rugby Memorial was unveiled on the battlefields of the Chemin des Dames, Aisne, France on September 16th 2017. John is the Co-Founder of the memorial and leads the research project identifying rugby players from around the world who lost their lives in conflict.

Matthew Palmer

Administration VE80 Lincoln

After serving for over 37 years in the British Army, Matt has recently transferred to the Royal Air Force Reserve as a Wing Commander, based at RAF Valley in North Wales. Most recently working in France for three years, he has supported a number of Francourt Events activities incorporating education, commemoration and sport over the former battlegrounds of the First World War’s Western Front. An Outreach Volunteer at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, he would like to invite you to consider the benefits of either playing or supporting walking rugby for all ages and abilities.

McCardo Weir (Natty)

Media & Film VE80 Lincoln

Passionate documentary filmmaker with a wealth of experience across diverse topics and storytelling styles. Known for creative vision and meticulous crafting, bringing untold stories to life with a commitment to authenticity and depth. With a background in both cinematography and editing, BEYONDIMAGES AI has crafted documentaries that have engaged audiences worldwide, with visually compelling narratives that inspire, educate, and elevate.