A POWYS rugby club has paid tribute to a former chairman, following his death.
Mike Watkins has been described as a “true gentleman” and the “backbone” of Llandrindod Wells Rugby Club.
Mike was someone who was an “inspiration” to many at the club, as well as rugby and sport in Mid Wales in general, while he will be fondly remembered as one of the ‘Wise Men’, a small band of supporters who followed Llandrindod home and away, come rain or shine.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of past committee member and clubman Mike Watkins,” Llandrindod Wells Rugby Club said in a post on its Facebook page on Wednesday, August 19.
“Mike was a great supporter of the club and of rugby in Mid Wales in general. As well as being seen on the sidelines at the majority of Llandrindod home and away games as part of the ‘Wise Men’ he was also a past club secretary.
“He was a past chairman of the Mid Wales District Rugby Union and helped represent the club with a great knowledge of the game and area in general.
“He is pictured above with some of his friends and colleagues, left to right, Martin Harvey, Jess Hiscock, Des Lewis and Mike Watkins.”
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Mike’s funeral was held on Tuesday, August 25, at St Llyr’s Church, Llanyre, with a celebration of his life held afterwards at the rugby club.
Former players and other clubs paid further tribute to Mike. Jac Holden said: “Very sad to hear this extremely sad news, my condolences go out to Mike’s family.
“He genuinely was a true gentleman and my generation of players will always be able to raise a smile (and a beer) at the thought of the four wise men on the touch line watching on and supporting us.
“Often the only four supporters we’d have there. From Tywyn in the north to Tylorstown in the south they’d be there come rain and shine.
“A true clubman and supporter of Mid Wales rugby. RIP Mike, a lovely man that we’ll all miss very much.”
Nigel Thomas said: “I am very saddened to hear of Mike’s passing. He was an inspirational guidance to not only Llandrindod Wells RFC, but the wider sports in Mid Wales. He was also a true gentleman.”
In response to the post, Builth Wells Rugby Club said: “Everyone at Builth Wells RFC, we would like to pass on our deepest condolences to everyone at Llandrindod RFC, and especially to Mike’s family and friends.
“Mike was a true backbone of Llandrindod RFC and a hugely respected figure across Mid Wales rugby.
“People like Mike are the heart of grassroots rugby – the people who give their time, commitment and passion to keep our clubs going.
“His contribution over so many years will have meant a great deal to so many people.
“A very sad loss for Llandrindod RFC and for the wider Mid Wales rugby community. Our thoughts are with Mike’s family, friends and everyone at the club at this very sad time.”
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