News

It is with the greatest sadness that after a long illness we have to announce the passing of our dear friend and much loved Clubman and former player David ‘Dai’ Collins on Saturday 3^rd August 2024 at the age of 90 years.

Dai was a hugely popular character with all our players and supporters over so many years. He played on the wing for the 1^st XV during the 1950s and served as the Taff’s Well RFC statistician and ‘authority’ on our club rugby playing records since the 1970s. His attendance at all weekly training sessions in all weathers was testament to his loyalty and commitment to our club and of course the players over so many rugby seasons. Dai’s handwritten records were recorded meticulously and shared at our annual club dinner much to the admiration of everyone. Dai also enjoyed playing cricket as both a batsman and bowler in his younger years.

Dai was a ‘Gwaelod boy’ and grew up with his sister Mair and twin brothers Geraint and Gareth. After the war he completed two years of National Service with the RAF in Pembroke Dock. He met a Tredegar girl called Gaynor at a dance in Creigiau Village Hall. It was love at first sight and they have celebrated 66 years of marriage. Dai worked at the Taff’s Well Cooperative Store in the 1950s and was promoted to manager. He then moved to Nantgarw Colliery Coke Ovens during the 1960s and 1970s.

Dai has been a constant and dedicated supporter of senior rugby at Taff’s Well RFC. He was also a member of the Vice Presidents club where he enjoyed the company of his many friends at all the events. Dai and Gaynor enjoyed travelling both at home and abroad and visited Greece many times over the years. He was also a keen writer of rhymes for family and close friends and loved spending time with all the children in the family.

His constant presence, support, friendship and encouragement to the players on match days, both home and away, made him a much respected and well liked character. He will be sadly missed in the Club by the players and all who knew him. Our deepest condolences go to his wife Gaynor, daughter Heather and son Gareth and to grandchildren Kelli, Teri, Sophie and Kane. Also to great grandchildren Jack, Kai, Charlie, Ava and the late Lexi. 

Dai’s funeral and celebration of his life takes place on Monday 2^nd September at 11.30, Wenallt Chapel, Thornhill Crematorium. Gaynor, Heather and Gareth welcome everyone to join them after for refreshments and friendship at Taff’s Well RFC.