Tributes to rugby player
TOUCHING tributes have been paid to a “true gentleman”, firefighter and beloved rugby team-mate who has died suddenly aged 30. Daniel Jones was a rugby player for Kenfig Hill RFC.
TOUCHING tributes have been paid to a “true gentleman”, firefighter and beloved rugby team-mate who has died suddenly aged 30.
Daniel Jones, who served as a firefighter in Cardiff and was based in Ely, was a talented r ugby player for Kenfig Hill RFC.
While rescuing and helping people through his work, he did the same in death by being an organ donor, which is “fetching comfort to his family”.
He died suddenly this week after being taken ill.
Both his South Wales Fire and Rescue Service colleagues and teammates have spoken of their privilege and pride in knowing him.
Chief fire officer Huw Jakeway QFSM issued a statement on behalf of all at South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.
“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the family, friends and colleagues of firefighter Daniel Jones at this very sad time,” he said.
“Daniel joined us in 2014 as a firefighter at Kenfig Hill Station, he then also joined the crew at Ely fire station in 2019 and he represented the Welsh Fire and Rescue Services rugby team.
“He served the communities of South Wales with immense professionalism and pride. We are privileged to have known him as a colleague and a friend and he will be greatly missed by us all.”
A statement from Kenfig Hill RFC, Dan’s club, said: “It is with deep regret that we have to tell you that Dan Jones has sadly passed away.
“Dan was a true young gentleman, very talented, loved his rugby and played alongside his brother at the Mules. The family would like you to know how proud they are of Dan.
“In the job he loved, as a firefighter, he helped and rescued people, and even in death Dan is doing the same.
“He is giving others the gift of life, by being an organ donor, and this is fetching comfort to his family.
“As a club we would like to echo their pride in Dan, as a team-mate and friend. You will be missed young man, but never forgotten.”
The club had been due to resume training but a session was cancelled on Thursday as a mark of respect.