‘Dicky’ Evans knighted by King Charles at Windsor Castle

The owner of the Cornish Pirates rugby club was knighted in the New Year’s Honours list in December, with the new Sir Richard saying at the time that he “couldn’t be more surprised or honoured” to become a Knight Commander in the Order of St Michael and St George, in recognition of his business, sporting and charitable services to Kenya and Cornwall.

On Tuesday Sir Richard’s investiture was conducted by King Charles. He was accompanied by his wife, Lady Jytte Evans, and their three children Louisa, Ross, and Emma.

Sir Richard speaking with King Charles (Image: Supplied)

Then on Wednesday evening, 70 close friends and guests from across the globe, with the majority from Kenya and from Cornwall, gathered at the Houses of Parliament with Sir Richard, to further celebrate his honour on the House of Commons Terrace overlooking the River Thames.

The Parliamentary Reception was hosted by Lord Michael Spencer, an old friend of Sir Richard’s, and fellow Anglo-Kenyan.

Close friend and working associate of Sir Richard’s, Martin Hudson, who is also a director of the Cornish Pirates, gave the tribute and toast, organising a display of flowers for the occasion that were grown on farms in Kenya set up by Sir Richard and Martin, and supplied by Flamingo as a gift to their founder.

Martin told those gathered that he had the great fortune to meet ‘Dicky’ in 1982, as he was establishing a fresh produce export business in Kenya.

He felt that his education and international experience, being an entrepreneur and risk taker, coupled with such a high sporting pedigree, set Dicky apart.

He was described as working “insane hours” to build his businesses, but at the same time family meant everything to him. Jytte had been an inspiration - the greatest supporter of all his endeavours, which also extended to his loving family, without which success would have been far more difficult.

You can read more about Sir Richard's incredible life's work here: Cornish Pirates Dicky Evans knighted in New Year's Honours

With reference to the forthcoming rugby coming season, which marks the 20th anniversary of the Cornish Pirates’ rebranding, Martin said: “You have not just been the financial backer, your knowledge of the game and players in our squad and the competing teams has been most welcome insight for the coaches, and in particular your close relationship with Gav and Paves has been built on mutual respect and is very much a part of the Pirates’ secret sauce.

“To see the Pirates have their highest ever finish as runner up, or better said 12th best side in English rugby – and with five players making the Championship team of the season - was so fitting of your decades of generosity to the team.”

He went on to add: “I know the lack of support for the Stadium for Cornwall remains a disappointment to you - but by God you tried, and you should take some comfort in saving Truro City Football Club and providing the means for them to get a new ground which is currently under construction.

“Sadly you were diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease some 11 years ago and this takes its toll and is such an unfair disease, but fight it you do and try anything you will, and with the determination that has been evident all your life, then you will continue the battle.

“In doing so you inspire countless others, and I wish your wish that you live to be 100. The advice you give from your own experience of Parkinson’s - I know this is very important and motivational to others.”

You can watch a video tribute shown during the evening at the House of Commons Terrace below.

Recalling the moment he was honoured in the New Year’s Honours List, Sir Richard said: “I couldn’t be more surprised or honoured. I have been blessed throughout my life with the support of family, friends, and thousands of wonderful people with whom I have worked and played.

“I am deeply grateful to His Majesty King Charles for conferring this honour upon me. We both have deep rooted connections to Cornwall and to Kenya and I hope that this award will further highlight the beauty and strength of both lands and their peoples.”

He went on to add: “In particular, I’d like to thank my wife for supporting me, especially through this Parkinson’s over the last 12 years. It’s been difficult for all of us, including the kids – it’s a life sentence but you have to face it, and with a positive attitude.

“Derek Thomas, who tried really hard to get the Stadium for Cornwall off the ground, was due to host our evening at the Houses of Parliament, so I was most grateful to Lord Michael Spencer for stepping into the breach.

“My thanks also to the many people who have been so very helpful and supportive in my life. You all know what you have done for me, and not forgetting absent friends.

"The investiture at Windsor Castle on Tuesday was inevitably truly special, as similarly was the gathering of everyone on Wednesday evening. My sincere appreciation is expressed to the King, my many friends, and to 'One & All' for such never to be forgotten moments."

Sir Richard with sports broadcaster and friend John Inverdale, and his chief of staff Sally Pettipher (Image: Supplied)

In what proved to be a busy week, Sir Richard was then at Wimbledon on Friday, where he watched the men's semi-finals match. 

He was joined by his friend, TV sports broadcaster John Inverdale, who also attended the House of Commons reception, and his chief of staff Sally Pettipher.