Our History

The Seventies (part 1)

The sixties ended with Monmouth having secured their new clubhouse and this helped to engender an optimism for the future.  Several players who played in the Sixties continued to represent the club in the 70’s.  They were to be reinforced by many who had progressed from the Youth team. 

The club captain for the 1969/70 season was Richie Wills.  Richie Wills returned to Monmouth having achieved an impressive ‘first class’ career.  Richie made his debut for Newport against Gloucester in April 1959 and played for Newport till 1961/62.  In total, Richie played 61 times for Newport scoring 25 tries (75 points).  Newport dominated the Snelling Sevens which was an annual competition  between the ‘first class’ clubs.  A notable moment for Richie was when he scored a try, winning the final against Pontypool, 8 –3.  The Newport side included Bryn Meredith and Brian Price amongst the 6 internationals in the winning team.  In 1962 Richie played for Hampshire against Warwickshire in the County Championship at Twickenham.  In the same year, Richie played for the Cpt Crawshay’s XV.  Although he was not to gain a Welsh Cap, in 1963 Richie played against the formidable NZ All Blacks, which arguably was one of the best teams to visit the British Isles.  Richie was at the centre of controversy as he was adjudged to have put a foot in touch in the process of scoring a try.  If given, Cardiff would have gained an historic victory!  In 1967, Richie was in the combined Abertillery/Ebbw Vale team against Australia.  In the team was another Monmouth boy, Ivor Berry.   Richie’s involvement with the club was to extend beyond the 70’s and was a popular committee man for several years.  Nowadays, he can be seen as a regular spectator at the Sports Ground.

Returning in the late 60’s was Ivor Berry.  Playing in the last seven games in 1968/69, he scored 60 points.  Although relatively small in stature, his timing and balance made him an accomplished place kicker and kicking from hand.  Ivor‘s natural talent was further nurtured at Monmouth School by Glyn John and Ivor played for the Welsh Secondary Schools side in 1960/61.  After leaving school, Ivor went to St. Luke’s in Exeter to become a teacher.  During the holidays, he brought his knowledge on fitness training to train members of the Monmouth team.  After college, Ivor was to play for Newport, Pontypool and Ebbw Vale and captained Monmouthshire.  In 1967 Ivor played for combined Abertillery/ Ebbw Vale against the Australians, alongside Ritchie Wills.  Ivor‘s connection with the Monmouth club extended beyond his playing days.  He joined the committee in the 90’s and became team manager 1992/94, joined by Richie Wills as assistant manager.  During this time Monmouth won the Monmouthshire Division 2 title.  Ivor was highly respected at the club and was great company at trips to internationals and tours.  Sadly, Ivor passed away in 2021. 

Ritchie Wills was succeeded by Tom Morgan, who returned as captain from 1971/73.  Tom was followed by Idris Leonard who led the club from 1973 to 1975.  There were changes among the club officials with Keith Symonds taking over from George Coates who had given 13 years’ service as secretary in the club.  After a year Keith was succeeded by Reg Stafford who remained as secretary until 1975.  Reg was a great supporter of youth rugby and was delighted with their achievements (which will be covered in another programme).  In 1975 another newcomer to the town and teacher at the local secondary school John Evans, took over as secretary and remained in that position until 1983.  However, there was some continuity with Eric Meredith remaining as Chairman until 1973 to be followed by Bernard Davies.  Both Eric and Bernard remained involved with the club after their terms of office and frequently watched matches and went on tours of which more will be revealed in later accounts.