News

Abercynon RFC are pleased to announce that the newly renovated upstairs function room is to be known as `The Walter Barnes Suite’.  The official opening evening is to be held at 7pm on Saturday 12th January, whereby a recognition plaque will be unveiled.

The naming of the Suite is an acknowledgement of the services provided by the late Walter Barnes who was a key figure in the club over the decades. Walter made unprecedented contributions to the club over a 50-year span, for which he was awarded the ultimate honour of becoming a life member of Abercynon Rugby Club in the early 90s.

In the 70s, Walter was pivotal in organising the eagerly awaited annual community fete that took place at the rugby club, often covering some of the expense himself to ensure the members and community had the most enjoyable day.  On a Saturday evening, he could be found propping up his corner of the lounge drinking his favourite tipple of Holsten Pills or finishing the evening in style with a Famous Grouse Whiskey.

In 1969, Walter’s company, Barnes & Talbot renovated an old shop situated in Margaret Street, Abercynon town centre into our very first clubhouse.  Furthermore, Walter then went on to build the purpose built clubhouse at Y Parc in 1986 that became his lasting legacy.

Walter who sadly passed away in May 2017, left a donation in his estate via his Nephews Richard and Huw Barnes to contribute towards the recent renovation of the upstairs function room.  The current committee and Walter’s family thought that this would be a fitting tribute to keep his legacy going in naming the room The Walter Barnes Suite. 

Abercynon RFC would also like to thank the Vice Presidents Club for their continued support, as they also contributed a very generous amount to the recent refurbishment and have massively contributed over the past years towards improvements around the clubhouse and become an invaluable asset to the club.

The unveiling of the plaque will take place approximately 7pm, that will be followed by the fantastic Acoustic duo Noughts and Crosses and will include a light buffet and Disco.   Any of Walters' friends are welcome to attend to celebrate the opening evening along with all Vice Presidents, players and club members.

Please click on the link below to see further images of the recent refurbishment:-

http://abercynon.rfc.wales/photo-albums/d5adfc3a-c2c0-4ebb-bfec-b230ea1d0adc/walter-barnes-suite

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