Match programmes for the 1949-50 season included a number of articles relating to other rugby clubs in and around Newport. Some of these clubs were fledgling, others long standing, but all getting to grips with local rugby in the post-war era. They provide a fascinating insight to the status and strength of these clubs at that time. Often written in a 'Boys Own' style stressing the importance of playing with the right spirit for rugger, reflecting the amateur ethos. The articles also refer to the post-war problems of compulsory National Service denying clubs players and even the loss of players to post-war emigration to "the Dominions".

It is also interesting to note the names of local industries at the time.

The list, and therefore the clubs, is not exhaustive, as some programmes are unavailable at the time of writing. Should they become available then any additional material will be added. Articles are presented in the chronological order in which they were published.

The series was launched with the following introductory article in the match programme for Newport v Cross Keys on 3rd September 1949.

"AROUND THE JUNIOR CLUBS"

"It is proposed during the coming season to devote this space to Junior Rugby Football."

"Many of these clubs are rich in tradition, and others, with steady confidence are gradually making a niche for themselves in South Wales Junior Football."

"The Executive Committee of the Newport and District Junior Rugby Union put in a tremendous amount of time and energy, and all affiliated clubs know that this very well organised body is keeping alive Junior Rugby."

"Mr. Jack Dunn is president of the N. and D. J.R.U., and many distinguished names are shown as Vice-Presidents."

"Mr. Fred Baker is the new Chairman, and he has an old team mate, Albert Stock, as his Vice-Chairman."

"Mr. Reg. Webb has held the secretaryship for many years. He was the secretary to the old Rugby Supporters' Club who sponsored the Junior Rugby before the 1939-45 War. He immediately offered his services when it was decided to once again organise Junior Rugby."

"Mr. W. W. Stanley is Hon. Treasurer."

"The N. and D. J.R.U. appoint referees each week for all affiliated games."

"This season the list of referees is much longer, and it is reported that many W.R.U. referees are prepared to give their services if not otherwise engaged. These grand fellows turn out in all types of wintry weather, and Junior Rugby is greatly indebted to them."

"The gap between a lad leaving school and being robust enough to participate in Junior Rugby has now been closed. The youth of the town and county who are interested will find that provision is being made to meet their needs."

" "Bunner" Travers has expressed his willingness to coach the N.A.C. youth, and it is understood that the response from the lads is quite good."

"Boys! Opportunity knocks!"

"Remember the local clubs. On September 17th, our next home game, one of the many clubs affiliated to the N. and D. J.R.U. will have an opportunity to tell its story to the Rugby Football Supporter."

Newport v Wasps 17th September 1949:-

"RISCA ATHLETIC R.F.C."

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union)"

"The "Athletic" only commenced their activities at the beginning of the 1948-49 season. The team is a subsidiary to Risca R.F.C., and use the Stores Field, Risca, for all home games."

"Their early season playing record was disappointing, but no lack of enthusiasm was ever evident by players or committee, and it was not long before the consistent form of a number of players was recognised by the senior fifteen committee."

"As the season progressed the perseverance of the players was rewarded when they carried off the Newport Rugby Supporters' Cup with a clear-cut victory of 12 points to three points over Newport Extras."

"This undoubtedly was an excellent performance in their first season, and the "Athletic" have already made up their minds to achieve a similar success in the 1949-50 campaign."

"A strong fixture list has been arranged, and they are fortunate in obtaining fixtures with Resolven 2nds, Thomastown and Porthcawl Athletic. A home game with the last-named club opens the 1949-50 season."

"The Chairman of the club is Mr. Percy Bunce, the old New¬port and Risca forward. He has had much enjoyment out of Rugby, and now he is putting back into the game all his experience and knowledge for the benefit of the lads from his home town. With such a stalwart at the helm a true and steady course is assured."

"The secretaryship is in the competent hands of Mr. Walter Jones, who played for R.A.F. teams in the Middle East and at home during the 1939-45 war."

"Risca is justly proud of its Rugby prowess, and the "Athletic" may be a means for some star of to-morrow getting his foot on the first rung of Rugby fame."

Newport v Swansea 24th September 1949:-

"NEWPORT HIGH SCHOOL OLD BOYS R.F.C."

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union)"

"The Old Boy's celebrated their Silver Jubilee last season which makes them one of the oldest, if not the oldest, members of the Newport and District Junior Rugby Union."

"As a section of the Old Boys' Association, its objects have been to strengthen the friendships made on the School Rugger Field, to emulate the high standard of play reached at the School, and to form a bridge between School and Senior Rugby. In this respect its record is a splendid one."

"Many have passed from the School to senior football and on to International honours direct, amongst them such household names as T. H. Vile, W. J. Martin. P. Baker Jones, C. M. Pritchard, all of whom played for Wales, and C. D. J. Hammett and S. Williams, who both represented England, and A. Holland, who was reserve for England. John Evans, who captained Wales in 1934, graduated from the Old Boys to Newport, as did his contemporary V. J. Law. Other players who passed through the Old Boys to obtain "Blues," and those who also found places in the best sides in the country present a list too long to mention individually."

"After a break during the war, the Old Boys re-formed in 1945-46, and after three seasons' playing on temporary pitches are now established at Caerleon and enter the 1949-50 season with the best fixture list in their history."

"Old Boys at home and overseas have helped unstintingly to re-establish the club and with the assistance rendered by the Newport and District Junior Rugby Union and the Newport Athletic Club, it would be fitting if under the captaincy of C. Derrick Phillips (Cambridge University and Newport) the Old Boys have their best playing year."

Newport v Llanelli 29th October 1949:-

"WHITEHEAD'S R.F.C."

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union)"

"It was in season 1936/37 that Whitehead's Sports Club first organized a Rugby Football team that was affiliated to the local Junior League, although some years previously a team had been formed which had lacked support and eventually had died a natural death. From 1936, however, until the outbreak of war, Whitehead's R.F.C. was well known amongst junior rugby football circles. It is interesting to note that the present Captain of the side, Jim Yendle, scrum-half, was a member of what might be called the original side."

"The advent of the war could not dampen the enthusiasm for rugby amongst the employees at Courtybella Works, and although other matters of national importance largely filled the minds of Whitehead's members, a few, who always reserved one small corner for their favourite sport, kept interest alive by arranging games between the "Works" and the "Staff" whilst any of the many other departments were encouraged to issue challenges and display their skill. These games provided great interest and enjoyment, and helped considerably towards lightening the lot of many members of the Club who were working long hours in the difficult conditions that existed all over the country at that time."

"A full fixture list was completed for 1946/47 and improvement in performances and results continued throughout that season, so much so that by the end of the season Whitehead's R.F.C. had won the Wernet Cup which, incidentally, they still possess, having resisted challenges and retained it for three consecutive years."

"The following season brought them further success as they not only won the Wernet Cup, but also the Newport and District Supporters' Cup, and in the season following were only defeated in the semi-final by the present holders."

"To cater for their increasing members, which includes employees of Messrs. Whitehead Iron & Steel Co.. Ltd., Messrs. W. A. Baker & Co. Ltd., and Messrs. Godins Ltd., it was found necessary to form two teams for season 1948/49, and during Easter of that year, they undertook their first tour of Devon defeating Torquay Harlequins R.F.C. and Plymouth Civil Service R.F.C. Such was the success of the tour that it is hoped to make it an annual one."

"Whitehead's Sports Club R.F.C. could field what would without doubt, be rated a first class team and whilst it is not intended to identify by name many of its members who are playing with first class Clubs, Newport Athletic Club included, this occasion cannot be allowed to pass without mentioning that at Courtybella works, working side by side, are two rugby footballers who have not only rendered gallant service to N.A.C., but have also played side by side for their country. The names of "Bunner" Travers and Ernie Coleman will live for many many years wherever the game is played or talked about."

Newport v Plymouth 5th November 1949:-

"MAGOR RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB"

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union)"

"How long Rugger has flourished in Magor is difficult to find out. Before World War I there was a Magor and District League. Neighbouring villages, Redwick, Goldcliffe, Sudbrook and Portskewett had clubs, but Magor is now the only village side in rural Monmouthshire."

"Players of the past who made Rugger history are Melville Baker and W. Hopkins, both of whom played for Magor, Newport and Wales. Len Attewell, Newport and Wales was also associated with the club."

"Owing to the limited population the club has had a chequered career. It was revived after World War I. The names of Ford, Brace, Attewell, Lewis and Williams, stalwarts of the past, are still found on the team sheets. Seventeen years ago George Williams was playing. He played in the recent Newport (War) XV, is still playing for Magor - and still kicking goals."

"The revival after World War II has been very successful and old players say that this is the best side to have represented the village. The popularity with other clubs is without question - fixtures are sought by clubs from all parts of South Wales and the West of England."

"Present day forwards well-known on the Athletic Ground who have played for Magor are B. Edwards and R. Rowlands."

"Between the wars the Secretary was Mr. Cliff Lewis. He is now the Club President. His son, J. B. Lewis, carried on the secretarial work before going to Portugal. Mr. F. Brenchley now does the work. This season's Captain is Eric Jones and he has a capable Vice-Captain in Don Powell."

"Last season the club scored 300 points and had the pleasure of beating the three rural towns, Monmouth, Chepstow and Usk in three successive games."

"The rural lads carry out the motto "The game's the thing," hence their popularity. If you want a nice afternoon in the country, visit them when they have a home game."

Newport v Cardiff 12th November 1949:-

"NEWPORT SARACENS R.F.C."

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union)."

"Newport Saracens R.F.C. was founded in season 1932-3, since when they have had an unbroken playing record. Despite the fact that 95 per cent, of their playing members were in H.M. Forces during the war, they became known as "A Newport XV" under the captaincy of Jim Hawkins, the former Newport half-back, and H. Saysell, the old Pill player, became team manager. Practically a full fixture list was arranged, and thus the Rugby flag was kept flying in Newport."

"They were unfortunate in losing their playing field two seasons ago, but nothing daunted, after much diligent search they acquired a new playing field at Sandy Lane, Lighthouse Road. Much work had to be done to make it into a Rugby pitch, a hedgerow had to be removed, trees felled and most of the ground re-turfed, and it was a proud moment when the field was officially opened on September 24th this year. A pavilion is being erected by the members, and when this is completed the Saracens will have a ground equal to any in junior football."

"A second XV. has been started this season, and it is very encouraging that an abundance of new players and members have come along as a result."

"Among players who have graduated to senior football are L. E. T. Jones, the present Newport captain, T. Sterry, H. Davies and H. Fisher."

"The president of the club is T. H. Vile, the old Newport and Welsh International half-back, and the chairman is D. J. Vile, the former Pill Harriers' half-back. Other Pill players are Gwilym Mitchell, the club trainer, and S. Manship, the full-back."

"L. Harris, this season's captain, has done much to encourage and help the second XV., whose captain is W. S. S. McLaughlin."

"The highlight of each season is the Easter tour of Devon, when Torquay 'Quins and Newton Abbott 'Quins are played, and players and members get together to have a real Rugby holiday."

"By their insistence on playing open type Rugby, irrespective of the result, they have a fixture list second to none in junior Rugby."

Newport v Watsonians 26th December 1949:-

"NEWPORT (ST. JULIAN'S) HIGH SCHOOL OLD BOYS' R.F.C."

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union.)."

"The R.F.C. is one of the strongest sections of the Old Boys' Association. The friendships made at school are carried on into manhood, and the open constructive play insisted on at school is emulated by the Old Boys."

"Fellows who love a game of Rugger are catered for, and others with distinct Rugby talents are nursed until they are mature enough to stand the more robust type of play encountered in Senior Rugby."

"In 1942, when the St. Julian's High School was occupied, it could be said that the N.S.S. Old Boys of the past would be the St. Julian's H.S.O.B. of the future."

"In the autumn of 1946 a number of pre-war Old Boys re-commenced the Old Boys' R.F.C., the late K. S. W. Hunt being chairman, with C. F. Carter, present chairman, as captain, and R. S. Webb as vice-captain. Then, with the nucleus of N.S.S. Old Boys, the St. Julian's H.S.O.B. R.F.C. was launched, and through the post-war seasons the Old Boys' R.F.C. has enhanced its good pre-war reputation."

"As the younger blood has returned from the Services, so they has displaced the "old" Old Boys, and this season, under the captaincy of Bob Gale and his vice, Mapson Phillips, they are fielding a very young, energetic side. It was unfortunate that two games were cancelled, and one (v. Lysaghts) abandoned. The Old Boys, however, still have a home record."

"No record of the Old Boys' R.F.C. would be complete without mention of the season 1948-49, when Newport first XV called upon three Old Boys as "hookers": Jack Ball, R. J. (Dick) Carter and Ken Lloyd, who was captain of the Old Boys for two consecutive seasons and is now with Cardiff Athletic."

"The Old Boys' latest aspirant to Newport first XV honours - is Harry Tovey, winging forward."

"There are far too many Old Boys to mention individually who also played for Newport and other first-class sides throughout the country. Two former Newport captains who also wore the red jersey for Wales were Harold Davies and Jack Morley."

"Jack (J. C.) Slade, the old Newport forward is doing a grand job as trainer. His wide experience of the game is certainly an asset to the Old Boys. The team takes full advantage of the "Keep Fit Classes," and during the dark evenings they report every Tuesday for training in the School gymnasium."

"Since the end of the war the Old Boys have lost a number of players who have emigrated to the Dominions. Amongst them are John Tizard, Roy Truscott and the Rev. Howell Witt to Australia, and Aubrey Baglow to Rhodesia. Christmas greetings to all of them. Mapson Phillips will be joining the others in Australia, and the Old Boys will lose a grand pack leader and place-kicker."

"A hearty welcome is extended to all Old Boys, either as players or good active supporters."

The match programme for Newport v Birkenhead Park 27th December 1949 included a reflection on the articles already published together with traditional festive greetings. It is interesting to note the aspiration that the newly formed Supporters' Club give priority to fostering junior clubs, a tradition that is still being maintained by the Friends of Newport Rugby Trust through their community work and sponsorship.

"AROUND THE JUNIOR CLUBS"

"When the season commenced it was announced that this space would be devoted to the histories of various Junior Clubs in Newport and district."

"The excellent co-operation received from the committees and officials of these clubs has made it possible to publish these articles."

"Practically without exception all present day senior players served their "apprenticeship" with a junior club, and all senior clubs know the debt they owe to these "nurseries." "

"It is really astounding the difficulties the junior clubs encounter, but always with a willing and loyal committee they continue to function and provide opportunities for the lads who wish to play the grand game of "Rugger." "

"Many of the clubs are well blessed with their own grounds; others are endeavouring to make their own grounds, but the greatest need is still MORE Rugby pitches."

"The Newport and District Junior Rugby Union are still playing their part, and week by week appoint referees for junior games."

"It can be taken for granted that anything the newly-formed Rugby Supporters' Club can do to foster junior clubs will receive high priority."

"The Schoolboys' and Youth XV.s are being encouraged, and it is very gratifying to see the support that has been given to these youngsters."

"Christmas has now passed, but with the second half of the season in the offing the junior clubs wish all Rugby followers"

"A HAPPY NEW YEAR."

Newport v Gloucester 31st December 1949:-

"LYSAGHTS' RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB."

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union)."

"Lysaghts' R.F.C. is only in its second season, but its ideals, team spirit and enthusiasm is equal to the clubs with long tradition."

"There is always a "beginning," and Lysaghts' R.F.C. has commenced as it means to continue."

"It is fitting that Mr. E. C. Lysaght should be president of the R.F. Club. He, in his day, played Rugger in the correct spirit, and with him taking a genuine interest in his works team there is every reason for a bright and successful future."

"The first season was fairly successful when it is remembered that pronounced difficulties were encountered with the ground and team building. The committee and faithful members of the team overcame all obstacles, and to-day they can look back with pride and measure their efforts with satisfaction."

"Special praise is due to Jack Horton, who has not yet missed a match. His efforts on and off the field have been an inspiration to his colleagues. Good work has been done for the club by Len Travers (where there is Rugby will be found a Travers), Arthur Dixey, Ivor Davics and W. Gorman (secretary)."

"The highlight of the initial season was a visit to the Lockheed Brake Company, whose strong fifteen narrowly triumphed after a grand open game."

"Games this season have been of a high standard, enjoyed by players and spectators. The main effort booked for the future is the meeting of Risca Athletic R.F.C. in the first round of the Supporters' Cup."

"Last season Risca Athletic beat Lysaghts six points to three, and then went on to win the cup. Lysaghts' ambition at the moment is to reverse last year's result wih Risca Athletic and go on to the final."

"Under the leadership of "Mac" Carter, the team is highly optimistic, but do not intend even to put the result of any game before their policy of good open Rugby."

Newport v Richmond 28th January 1950:-

"NEWPORT CIVIL SERVICE R.F.C."

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union)."

"The official opening of the Civil Service Sports Ground at Bettws took place in 1933, when the opening ceremony was performed by Sir Noel Curtis Bennett, now president of the National Playing Fields Association. The grounds are situated in pleasant surroundings, and a great deal of social activity takes place in the well-appointed if small pavilion."

"The Rugby Section came into existence in 1935 a short while after the club was established. A keen bunch of fellows with the advice and assistance of a few old stalwarts of the game, formed themselves a team and a committee, and with the sole present of a set of jerseys, set about making themselves known in the Newport sphere of Junior Rugby Football."

"Playing records were none too good, there being few wins and plenty of defeats, but the margin was seldom much against and the team spirit was high."

"V. S. Thomas was the first secretary, and G. Goldsworthy the chairman, both of whom had played for the National Civil Service and had worn the black and amber of Newport. The first captain was H. J. MacGillivray, who had a Civil Service trial, and he was followed by E. W. Blanch and H. B. Lee, of the G.P.O. who did much to keep the team going up to the outbreak of war."

"During the war the Rugby pitch was put under the plough to augment food production."

"The club re-commenced its activities in September, 1947, and after much hard work by Secretary and Captain, D. Thomas and H. Bunce, a team was raised and fixtures were arranged with most of the old rivals."

"Seasons 1947-48 and 1948-49 had many difficulties and setbacks, but with high spirits all obstacles were overcome. This gave the club a good foundation to start this season. J. Packer (captain), D. Baulch and J. Jones have worked hard to improve the playing standard and have built up a strong side capable of giving most junior clubs a good game."

"The transfer of players to other parts of the country is an ever present problem for the committee in their team-building. Only one player, J. Packer, who has worn the Newbridge colours, has received recognition for his services, being selected reserve for the Welsh Civil Service v. English Civil Service, but it is hoped that many more will be recognised by the Newport Junior Rugby Union."

"L. E. T. Jones, the present Newport captain, assisted the Civil Service in its early post-war recovery, and it was gratifying to see him selected to lead the Welsh C.S. XV and to play for the National C.S. XV."

"It is intended to send a team up to London for the C.S. National seven-a-side championships this season, and it is hoped to bring the cup out of London for a change."

"So far this season D. Baulch heads the scorers with 67 points "under his jersey." "

"Owing to the great facilities offered for Rugby at Bettws Lane, the club is always happy to see new faces, and a great welcome is offered to any Rugger enthusiasts."

Newport v Leicester 11th February 1950

"CROESYCEILIOG RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB"

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union)."

"The history of Croesyceiliog R.F.C. commenced in the early part of the last century. Players now well advanced in years will remember their fathers playing for the club. The actual date of the formation has died with the players, but there is no doubt that the club is one of the oldest in the Valleys. A team could be formed to­day that represented Croesyceiliog sixty years ago in the Mon. Senior League. One memory told to the youngsters by the “old ones” is of the year when Penarth beat Newport, Abergavenny beat Penarth, and Croesyceiliog beat Abergavenny. They were known as the “world beaters,” and they are still proud of the nickname to-day."

"The first World War claimed players from the club, but it was re-started, and they were one of the first members of the Newport Supporters’ Club under the secretaryship of Mr. Bill Jones. Although no great players have been produced by the club, many of them have graduated to first class teams."

"Along came World War II, and again Croesyceiliog was hit by losing a number of prominent members; but undaunted tbey were one of the first clubs to re-open after the cessation of hostilities. Since then the club has experienced a lean time, with dressing room and ground difficulties, but fortunately these have been overcome through generous suppport."

"Financial worries have been great, but now, under the guidance of new officers. Mr. L. Morgan (Chairman), Mr. Bryn Morgan (Treasurer) and Mr. H. Watkins (Hon. Secretary), the club is getting back on to its own feet."

"Croesyceiliog’s policy is to remain as a village team, although the drainage by factory teams has been great, and although these teams have the finances to travel further afield for attractive fixtures, it is the village teams that provide the backbone of the Welsh Rugby sides of to-day."

"Under the leadership of the former Cwmbran half-back, Len Gillard, and vice-skipper Gwyn Skuse. the team is being built into a strong force. They are a young and energetic side."

Newport v Blackheath 25th February 1950:-

"CHEPSTOW R.F.C. 2nd XV."

"(Affiliated to Newport and District Junior Rugby Union)."

"Chepstow Rugby Club re-started their second XV. in 1929, and in their first match with Monmouth 2nd XV. only two of the Chepstow XV. had played Rugby before. Chepstow lost by 30 points to nil."

"However, with careful working and training the 2nd XV. grew into a strong side for the next season."

"Some of the well-known names born in that second team are Jack Richardson, Jack Swallow (who afterwards played for Newport, Cross Keys and Pontypool), G. W. (Shiner) Jones (who later was reserve in the final trial for Wales), and W. H. Hopkins (who played for Newport and got a Welsh cap against Scotland in 1937)."

"Since this last war the second team again had a good reputation. They always looked forward to the Saturday morning, when they would walk down the main street and ask the secretary a dozen times (if they saw him) if the game was "still on." "

"It can easily be understood that the committee of the club were faced with a very difficult decision to make when it was found that no suitable ground could be obtained on which the second team could play. In fact, at the beginning of this season the committee postponed their decision for many weeks, but were finally forced to cancel the second team's fixtures for the remainder of the season. Efforts are being made to re-start the junior side next season. The Club very much regretted withdrawing from the Newport and District Junior Rugby Union, in which it had found such good spirit."

"The members of the second team, however, are not resting; in fact, the whole three-quarters line of the existing first XV. consist of players who at the beginning of the season played as second team members."

"It is the policy of the club to play the younger members whenever possible. Some of the second team members have naturally joined local sides, but it is hoped that this is only a temporary measure."

"The club look forward to re-joining the clubs of the Newport and District Junior Rugby Union next season."

Newport v Cardiff 4th March 1950:-

"NEWPORT ROVER SCOUTS R.F.C."

"(Affiliated to Newport & District Junior Rugby Union)."

"The Newport Rover Scouts Rugby Football Club, in the first place is a general athletic club, had its first complete fixtures in season 1928/29. During that season they were well-known as the local "chopping block," and did not win a match until the end of March, finishing the season with the depressing record of winning only one game out of thirty-one played."

"Their sportsmanship in playing under these conditions was recognised by a grant of two pounds from the Welsh Rugby Union."

"Two seasons later, this same Club preserved its ground record until the last match of the season. The prestige of the Club was high, and chiefly through the untiring efforts of the Secretary, Mr. D. P. Reid, two teams were fielded each week. One team was composed of youngsters under twenty-one, and they participated in the Wall Cup."

"An attractive fixture list was arranged, including Bristol University XV."

"The Club ran continuously, with varying fortunes, until the War forced it to disband, due to insufficient players."

"During the season 1948/49 a few experimental games were played, to explore the possibility of a re-start. The present season was commenced with an almost complete fixture list. The team, under the captaincy of Phil Kicke, has now been built up into a well balanced side."

"The ever present demands of National Service drain the Club of promising material. This problem confronts all Junior Rugby Committees."

"Compared with pre-war sides the present team is much younger. The Committee is well satisfied with the progress made, and their efforts to cater for this sporting side of Scouting is much appreciated by the team members."

"Many ex-Scouts, such as Jack Morley, have attained senior rugby honours."

"The Newport Scouts R.F.C. are also proud of other athletic honours brought to Newport by Scouts, Welsh International Harriers, Junior Wrestling Champions and Empire Games Swimmers."

"Senior or Rover Scouts wishing to join the R.F.C. section are requested to contact Phil. Kicke, 26 Railway Street, Newport."

Newport v Harlequins 18th March 1950:-

"MONMOUTHSHIRE TRAINING COLLEGE R.F.C."

"(Affiliated to Newport & District Junior Rugby Union)."

"The Monmouthshire Training College is always referred to as "Caerleon College" by local Rugbv followers. The College, situated on the high side of Caerleon is a prominent landmark. The boys are fortunate in having excellent facilities, and their well-appointed pitch is always in good condition. They take their training seriously and take full advantage of the playing field, being on their "door-step." The aim has been to endeavour to play bright, open football. This has been considered doubly important because all players taking part will be going out to teach children."

"The R.F.C. has always had the very strong support of Principal T. J. Webley, who has seen many excellent footballers pass through the College."

"Newport and many other Welsh clubs have been well supported by ex-College players. Quite reqently, Mr. Ray Thomas, Lecturer in Physical Education, was refereeing a Devonport Services game and found four old students in the Devonport Services' team and two in the other team. Incidently, Mr. Ray Thomas and Mr. Cyril Joynson are Welsh Rugby Union referees, and as such keep the members of the club fully conversant with the rules of the game."

"An incomplete list of players who have done well will serve to show the value of fostering the game in the College."

"Wales: E. Finch. A. R. Ralph. I. Evans, Malcolm Thomas; reserves, Glyn Hopkins and Ray Thomas."

"County players (apart from the above. W. J. Glastonbury, D. Gullick, E. Lewis. S. Llewellyn, R. West (Midland C.), D. Herbert, T. R. Davies and V. May."

"Past records have been mislaid, so inadvertently many players have not been mentioned."

"The counties known to have been helped by old College players are Monmouthshire, Glamorgan, Middlesex, Kent, Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and East and North Midlands."

"Newport itself has been helped by Don Herbert, W. T. Evans. H. L. Morgan, Ray Thomas, Malcolm Thomas, and a host of other players who have filled in gaps when injuries have made it difficult to field a team. Mr. H. L. Morgan has filled an administrative post with the Newport Club since the war."

"It is the hope of the Principal and the Committee that the standard of Rugby football played in the past will continue in the future, and that the College XV. type of Rugger will influence budding Rugby aspirants."

Newport v Penarth 25th April 1950

"AROUND THE JUNIOR CLUBS."

"On September 3rd, 1949, in the first programme for the season that closes to-day it was promised that this space would be devoted to Junior Rugby."

"The Newport Schools Rugby Union, the Youth XVs, and team affiliated to the Newport and District Junior Rugby Union have co­operated by giving details of their activities and also some very in­teresting histories."

"These articles would not have been possible without the aid of the various secretaries of the junior clubs, and we take this last oppor­tunity to thank them for bringing home to the Rugby spectator the unselfish work carried on by ex-players to make Junior Rugby such a highly efficient organisation in Newport and district."

"The histories of the following Junior Rugby Football Clubs were published in this order: Risca Athletic, Newport High School Old Boys, Whiteheads, Magor, Newport Saracens, Newport School Rugby Union, Newport (St. Julian’s) High School Old Boys, Lysaghts, Newport Civil Service, Croesyceiliog, Chepstow 2nds, New­port Rover Scouts, and Monmouthshire Training College (Caerleon)."

"The Newport and District Junior Rugby Union has again supplied the referees, and their guidance and help has made it possible for hundreds of young fellows to enjoy their Saturday afternoons game of Rugger."

"Mr. Fred Baker (chairman), Mr. Reg. Webb (secretary) of the Newport and District Junior Rugby Union and their very able com­mittee are doing a grand job."

"The Junior Clubs are proud of the “parent club’s” playing record under the popular captaincy of “Let” Jones."

"Although the season is about to close, the fortunes of Ken Jones, Bob Evans and Malcolm Thomas    will be eagerly followed during the summer months. We are all sure that they will bring credit to Newport and to the British team touring New Zealand and Australia."

"The Junior Teams are rightly proud that the Triple Crown has “Come home again to Wales.” "