Tributes have been paid to a much-loved Welsh rugby club "legend" who has died.
John Davies was president of Pill Harriers RFC and served the division two east club in the Admiral Leagues with admirable dedication. Affectionately known as ‘Cardboard’, the former prop filled multiple roles over the years and was an immensely popular figure.
“He was a character who did almost every job there was to do at the club,” said Pill chairman Brian Cromwell.
“As a player, he had a bit of a problem with his shoulder coming in at scrums. One day, someone joked he was made of cardboard and before you knew it that became his nickname. It didn’t bother him. He took it as a bit of fun and in the spirit it was intended.
“Undoubtedly, he was a club legend. He would do whatever you wanted him to do if it helped Pill, and do everything with a smile on his face. You didn’t need to ask him twice. He just got on with it.
“Every rugby club needs someone like Cardboard. He would do any painting that was needed to be done, he’d put flags out on Saturday mornings and collect them after games — nothing was too much trouble.
“And he was modest as well. When he was made club president he was embarrassed at first, saying: ‘Are you sure you have the right bloke?’ But he made a great job of it as we all knew he would. He’ll be sorely missed.”
Pill released the news of his passing via Twitter, saying: “Today we have received the unfortunate news that our club president, Mr. John Davies (more commonly known as Cardboard) has passed away! We as a club send our condolences to Cardboard’s friends and family # UTH #ClubLegend”.
Read more:
Former Wales star James Hook lands coaching job with top Welsh club as impressive set-up announced
What became of the young Wales team who did something very special three years ago
