A strong turn out at Caldicot RFC, had the pleasure of spending the afternoon catching up with old friends and listening to the wonderful memories of Mr Russell Robins

Russell spoke about his loyalty and love of Pontypridd RFC which he played 184 times as his main club. However Russell spoke about the times he spent in the North of England where he represented Yorkshire. Later in his career Russell would switch codes and play for Leeds Rugby League.. Why ? .. because he was "Skint !.."

Russell famously went on the 1955 British Isles tour of South Africa, not only did he play all four tests in what has become a legendary series, he played in total 17 games, more than any other player on the tour.

Russell spoke about the difficulties in obtaining expenses and how the WRU had treated the players to a drink after a famous victory in France playing for Wales in 1955 (Russell played France 4 times and never lost). The players where ushered into a room and asked to share 6 bottles of beer between the whole team, a bottle of Whisky was also present which disappeared quickly ...but thats another story.

It was very evident that Russell not only cared deeply about the game he loved so much but had a deep affection for the players he had played with, his views on the modern game I think were echoed by many in the room.

A card was created for the event ( Big thanks you to Ray for his research and putting the card togther ) however in what was probably the funniest episode at at AGM ever a number were signed incorrectly by a tall new member who walked through the door at the time we expected Russell .. the first seven where signed before the error was appreciated.

Several stalls where in attendance together with a considerable amount of the late Roger Harris's collection. Many of the item sold which will benefit Viv and family as well a the society itself.

.Big thanks you to Brian Maggs for organising the event and Russell's attendance, Caldicot RFC and the rest of the committee for putting on a wonderful event !