TRIBUTES Tributes paid to club’s ‘cornerstone’

A “CORNERSTONE” of Pontypridd Rugby Club has been remembered for his larger-than-life character and selfless dedication to helping young people.

As well as his fantastic sense of humour and “great zest for life”, dad of two Martyn Lewis was known for his unwavering loyalty after spending 21 years coaching hundreds of players in the club’s youth rugby team.

Born in Porth, Martyn studied at Acton Technical College and the University of London before securing a job as an auditor for Mercedes Benz.

Despite working away for a large part of his youth, the avid rugby fan kept close ties with his hometown throughout his life, playing for their second team on trips home.

With a passion for travelling, friends also fondly remember his stories from across the world, and him dressing “like an Arabian Prince” walking through the streets of Porth after spending years working in the Middle East.

After supporting Pontypridd RFC for many years, Martyn became officially involved in 1996 after discussing the idea of a youth team with friends Mark Newbury, Islwyn Johns and Dai Legge in the local pub. From there a poster campaign led to enough interest for the group’s first mixed age group team in December of that year.

Since then, Martyn remained a cornerstone of the club, spending 21 years building the section to its current status with 11 teams and more than 200 players.

His many achievements include helping to resurrect the team after a short absence and establishing the youth team’s home at Taff Vale Park with changing rooms and pitches.

Following his death at the age of 66, Martyn’s memory will be continued through his wife Cathy, daughter Rachel and son Rory.

Remembering a dear friend on behalf of Pontypridd RFC mini and junior section, Mark Langford said: “Those of you that know Martyn will all agree that although he may not have been the biggest man in terms of stature, he was a truly larger than life character with a great sense of humour a real zest for life and will always be remembered as a giant within the age grade structure for Pontypridd RFC.

“During his time Martyn has never asked or wanted anything in return for his service other than to see the children and young adults of the area have the opportunity to enjoy and play this great game.

“Although the final whistle may have now blown, Martyn will continue to be remembered for the legacy he leaves and has the gratitude of the parents and many hundreds of children that continue to play for and have passed through the section and youth structure at this great club.”

Martyn’s funeral was held on September 15. Paying tribute, a minute’s silence was held to remember Martyn on September 16 before Pontypridd RFC’s match against Merthyr RFC.