The shock of Les’ death has reverberated around Welsh Rugby.

Our hearts go out to his wife Valmai, his son Rhodri, daughter in law Becky and grandson Felix upon whom he idolized.

Les in the rugby world was a man’s man. A patient, good natured listener who after weighing up the pros and cons was never afraid to speak his mind directly and honestly. He loved Risca Rugby Club, after all who, these days, would spend 50 years working for the same club? Player, Supporter, Trustee, Life Member and Committeeman.

A product of Pontywaun, Les began his rugby career with Cwmcarn United and on to Risca RFC where he enjoyed the fellowship of “The Front Row Society” as a hooker.

With Valmai and his family behind him, Les enjoyed his rugby and after his playing days joined Newport District Referee Society and progressed to W.R.U. Referee status. Along side his refereeing he served Risca Rugby in all positions except chairman. A respected secretary at the Club he represented District A on the W.R.U. and then as District A Secretary until his death.

The number of rugby messages sent to the Club reveals how well received and loved he was by the rugby world. Les, in his quiet way, enjoyed an occasion, the 125^th WRU Anniversary Dinner was one of his highlights and, of course, the latest Grandslam.

At the Club he was a patient mentor and good friend to all and his committee friends of many years will have countless wonderful memories to cherish.

Enjoying his two pints of shandy, he would make straight for home, thank you Valmai, Rhodri and family for sharing his life with us, a completely loyal and trusted man

God Bless you Les.

The Cuckoo’s call will be much quieter this spring