No.8 Irvin was born in Birkenhead in March 1984, and has represented the East Midlands.

At 6 foot 3 and 111kg, he has previously been with London Wasps, and his sporting hero is Scott Quinnell.

Towards the end of the 2004/5 season the Durham University player was also called up to the England Universities squad to play the Combined Services at Twickenham.

School/university: Bedford Modern School

Previous clubs: London Wasps academy

Nicknames: Gregor to some, ‘The Bear’ to others

Favourite TV show: 24, Simpsons, Neighbours

Favourite film: Wedding Crashers, Top Gun

Favourite music: Westlife, Shakira, Il Divo

Favourite book: Scarecrow

Favourite food: BBQ

Most like to meet: Hulk Hogan

Least like to meet: I’ll give anyone one chance, only one mind!

Best moment in rugby: Winning the BUSA final in 2004 with Durham University, beating France with England Students in Cahors, 2007

Best moment outside of rugby: Twilight bungee jump over Queenstown, NZ

Favourite place to visit: Buenos Aires

Team-mate least like to share a room with and why: Stu Walker, because of his horrific ‘tighty whities!’

I love: Klute

I hate: The A1 in rush hour