No I haven’t walked the 200 feet of tunnel that reputedly leads from renowned London wine merchants Berry Brothers and Rudd to Buckingham Palace, but I am assured such a route exists, writes Ronan O’Gara.

The transfer of Ireland out-half Johnny Sexton to Racing Metro has acquainted Irish fans of the oval ball with a fact of life: A new breed of owner now holds sway in French rugby and they will allow little to get in their way.

England star Jonny Wilkinson is one of a number of high-profile targets of Racing Metro, the French club have confirmed.

CROSSHAVEN and Cork bid ‘adieu’ to the 50 lionhearted Le Figaro sailors as they set off on the second leg of the race to Brest yesterday.