THE British and Irish Lions coach, Warren Gatland, has signed an official partnership with Worcester-based sporting memorabilia company Firma Stella Sports.

The company, headed by Worcester entrepreneur Peter Johnson, sell a full range of 100% authentic autographed sports merchandise, covering rugby, football, F1, cricket, tennis, and golf and now Gatland has signed an exclusive deal.

It was the first time a signing has taken place at Firma Stella’s headquarters and Peter Johnson admitted it was an “awesome” experience to welcome Gatland to Worcester.

“Warren signed all things rugby including lions 2021 shirts, Wales grand slam shirts, balls, photos,” he said.

“This was the first time a signing has taken place at our headquarters as we usually travel to the location of the icon.

“It was an awesome experience for the Firma Stella team to have one of the most successful coaches in rugby history at Firma Stella, Warren was very interesting guy, engaging, down to earth, humorous and passed on some of his wisdom.”

Gatland was in England this week as he continues to prepare for this summer’s Lions Tour, despite the location of said tour remaining unknown due to the various complications Covid-19 has caused.

It was due to take place in South Africa between July and August, with 10 matches scheduled including the three test series against the reigning World Champions The Springboks.

Rumours suggest it could be held here in the UK after Australia was ruled out as an option, despite their offer to host.

The current Chiefs head coach watched on at The Rec last weekend as Exeter Chiefs came from behind to beat Bath, with a certain Sam Simmonds impressing the former Welsh international coach.

Gatland joins the likes of Columbian football star James Rodriguez and England rugby union internationals Manu Tuilagi and Tom Curry in signing an exclusive partnership with Firma Stella.

You can find the full range of all the company's signed merchandise here.