JPR Williams: Rugby legend dies aged 74
Legendary Welsh player JPR Williams has passed away at the age of 74, with tributes pouring in from across the globe on Tuesday.
A true icon of 1970s rugby, JPR Williams was appointed MBE in 1977 for services to rugby, having established himself as an all-time great with Wales.
Williams earned 55 caps for his country, winning three Grand Slams in the then Five Nations Championship, while forming a key part of Wales’ finest rugby eras, winning successive Grand Slams and Triple Crowns.
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He als won eight Test caps for the British & Irish Lions on successful tours of New Zealand in 1971 and South Africa in 1974.
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JPR WILLIAMS WILL FOREVER BE REMEMBERED AS A RUGBY LEGEND
Williams’ former club, Bridgend Ravens, confirmed the news late on Monday evening.
“Bridgend Ravens are devastated to announce the passing of JPR Williams,” they said.
“One of Bridgend’s most decorated players and an icon of world rugby, JPR served the club most recently as club president. Our thoughts are with JPR’s family and friends at this sad time.”
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SUCCESSFUL ON AND OFF THE FIELD
Williams was also an orthopaedic surgeon and had four children with his wife, Scilla.
In a statement provided to the BBC, the family said: “JPR died peacefully today at the University Hospital of Wales surrounded by his loving wife and four children, after a short illness, bravely battling bacterial meningitis.
“The family request privacy at this difficult time.”
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