Memories of derbies with former Welshpool and Caersws star

The 1950s and 1960s are often regarded as the hey day of Montgmeryshire football with Caersws, Newtown, Llanidloes Town and Welshpool Town each winning national honours.

The derby matches between these clubs were highlights of the sporting calendar with thousands of spectators filling the sidelines.

Former Caersws and Welshpool Town player Trevor Smith featured in many such derbies during his playing career and fondly remembers the era.

Trevor said: “Caersws, Newtown, Welshpool and Llanidloes were made up of mainly local lads who had great followings and games between the clubs were local derbies not to be missed.

“Caersws team players changed in a pub just across the river bridge on the left. After a game we washed in buckets of water there.”

Trevor remembered part of the Bluebirds success was its strong familial ties with a host of brothers donning the famous blue shirt during a successful era for the village club.

“Caersws had a number of brothers playing for them,” said Trevor. “The Davies brothers, Gareth and Gwilym, the Smiths, Wyburn and Wilf, and sometimes the Stephens, Ray and Gordon who later went to Newtown.

“I remember names of other stars such as Ken Reynolds and Brian Rees.”

“I was doing National Service and when I was stationed in Chester the club paid my expenses for getting me home when I was not on duty.”

Looking back at his career, Trevor also remembered the equipment which was far removed from those of the modern era.

Trevor said: “The boots we wore were heavy leather ones while the ball was also leather with a leather lace which was enough to knock you out if you didn’t head it properly, and would leave quite a mark if you caught it on the inside of your thigh.”

While the era is now part of football’s glorious past, tales of the derbies have been passed down by those fortunate to have witnessed them.