It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that Newport Rugby Football Club announces the passing of our beloved President, Mr Brian “BJ” Jones.
Brian has been a massive part of our club since making his debut in 1953 and one of the greatest rugby men of a generation.
Over more than seven decades, he served Newport RFC as a player, captain, coach, committee man, chairman, and most recently, as our cherished President.
To many, he was simply known as Mr Newport—
Brian, a proud product of Cwmcarn, represented Monmouthshire, Crawshays, the Royal Navy, the Barbarians, and earned two caps for Wales, making his international debut against Ireland in 1960.
Affectionately known as BJ, he made an incredible 330 appearances for Newport RFC, amassing 566 points through 101 tries, 61 conversions, 33 penalties, and 14 drop goals.
He was a 7’s expert and one of 3 Snelling Secretaries.
Among his proudest achievements was becoming the only Welshman, at the time to be on the winning side against all three major touring sides on home soil: playing in Newport’s famous win over Australia in 1957, helping the Barbarians defeat Avril Malan’s South Africa in 1960, and most memorably, overcoming the mighty New Zealand All Blacks in 1963.
His legacy extended beyond the pitch as he went on to coach Newport to a Welsh championship in 1968–69, and victory over the 1969 Springboks.
Through his leadership, passion, and deep knowledge of the game, Brian shaped not only teams but generations of players that earned him respect and friends all over the world.
In recent Years, Brian took pride in being appointed president in 2019 and remained an integral part the club right up until his passing ,
He was our living link to the storied past, lending immense gravitas through his presence, offering his insight and support to coaches and players alike, never missing a training session or a game despite his later declining health.
For someone who achieved everything, the Icing on the cake came for him in 2022 when the squad achieved what had eluded his own generation: defeating Cardiff four times in a single season.
Brian’s footprint is etched into the fabric of Newport RFC, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him and listen to him recall past glories.
It certainly is the end of an era.
Our thoughts are with his family Jacqueline, Lisa, Caitlan, Stephen & friends, and all who were touched by his extraordinary life.
Rest in peace, BJ.
Thank you for everything.
.
Tribute by Mark Workman, Newport RFC Chairman.