‘Heart and soul’ of rugby club dies after cancer battle
BRIDGEND’S longest-serving chairman Derrick King has died, the club has confirmed. One of Welsh rugby’s most respected figures, Mr King had been seriously ill for some time after being diagnosed with cancer.
Confirming the news on Sunday night, Bridgend Ravens said in a brief statement: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Chairman, Derrick King.
“Derrick’s service to Bridgend RFC and Welsh rugby exceeded 25 years. He fought his battle with cancer with great dignity and leaves a massive void in our club. Our thoughts are with Derrick’s family.”
King, who served on the WRU management committee for several years in his role as chairman of the Premier clubs, was the heart and soul of the club he had been chairman at for more than 25 years.
The WRU said: “Along with all who knew him, we are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Derrick King.
“Long-standing and dedicated servant to his beloved @bridgendravens and much-loved and respected figure
throughout Welsh rugby. Rest in peace Derrick, you will be greatly missed.”
In May, King was on hand to witness his beloved club successfully avoid relegation following a dramatic 34-31 win over Pontypridd.
Despite the fact he was seriously ill at that stage, he had even been working behind the scenes to try to secure the future of his team in the Welsh Premiership.
Holding back tears after the final whistle just a few months ago, King said at the time: “Every one of the players has rung me this year, they all knew I had cancer and was terminally ill.
“They’ve all said ‘this is for you’. They’re a marvellous bunch of boys.
“They’ll never know what it means. I’ve got a couple of months to live but today is good.”
That match came a week after the well-respected chairman left players in tears after writing a set of heartwrenching programme notes thathe admitted at the time could be his last.