In Memoriam – Alun Granfield
It is with profound sadness that Pontypridd RFC announces the passing of Club historian Dr Alun Granfield, at the age of 84.
Alun served the club for five decades in many different roles, firstly sitting on different sub-committees dating back to the 1970’s, before eventually becoming our Club Historian and Statistician.
Alun spent decades preserving the Club’s history, documenting the team’s achievements and keeping alive the stories that make Pontypridd RFC what it is today.
Through his meticulous records, storage of evidence and photographs, Alun ensured that generations of players, supporters and members could continue to reminisce the heritage and memories of Ponty RFC. His passion for the Club was exceptional, and his knowledge unparalleled. If one wanted information of a match, a milestone or a memorable moment he would provide the relevant information and more, always going above and beyond what was asked of him.
Arguably, the pinnacle of Alun’s Ponty-related work for the Club was the publication, in 2007, of his book ‘In Black And White – Pontypridd RFC 1876-2003.’ This was a volume of over 200 pages packed with information, images, facts, figures and opinions, that presented to the world the history of our rugby club.
Beyond his extraordinary contribution to our history, Alun was one of the most loyal and passionate supporters of Pontypridd RFC watching the Club home and away, week in, week out, and was a friend of so many people within the Club. Dr Alun Granfield’s name will now, somewhat appropriately be etched into the history of Pontypridd RFC, and deservedly so.
On Alun’s passing, Ponty RFC Head of Media Geraint Thomas said: “Firstly I would like to extend my personal sincere condolences to Alun’s loved ones. I have known Alun for a number of years, but have had the pleasure of really getting to know him on a personal level over the last six years or so, and that has been a real privilege. Going to his house and chatting about Pontypridd RFC-related stories over a coffee was always a real treat. Listening to Alun talk about our club and reminiscing about the past I think it’s fair to say he could have probably written around ten books on the history of Ponty RFC. Alun has been a real stalwart of the Club’s Media Team over the years, and I don’t know what I would have done without him in all honesty. We’d speak on a near-weekly basis, and he’d always be too happy to provide any requested information whether that was for past matches, past players or just cold hard statistics – he would provide these and more. Alun’s passing has left a not just a huge hole in our Media Team but also the Club as a whole. Rest in peace Alun, and once again thank you for everything.”
Honorary Club Secretary Steve Reardon said: “The significance of Alun’s contribution, over many decades, to the annals of Pontypridd RFC cannot be overstated. Not only as sentinel but as creator also; from generating individual player-profiles, to programmes for awards evenings, to his era-defining book. A personable historian whose oratory and storytelling was always fascinating to hear.”
Once again Pontypridd RFC wishes to extend its deepest condolences to Dr Alun Granfield’s family, friends and all who knew him. Rest in peace Alun, you will be remembered, respected and deeply missed by everyone connected to the Club.
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