News

It was with deep sadness and a great sense of loss that we received the news that Hilton Bowen had passed away at the age of 68. Hilton was a former player and club captain of Abercynon RFC who played a major role during a 1970s golden period for the club. Several years prior to him joining Abercynon Hilton, then 18 years old and after just a handful of games for the Whites, played in the Swansea RFC team against the touring South African Springboks in November 1969.

Hilton joined Abercynon in 1975-76 season and over his 9 season tenure at the Club played 260 games and ran in an impressive 73 tries. In addition, he captained the 1^st XV in season 1977-78, when they lost just 3 games out of 39, winning both the Mid District Championship and Knock-Out Cup and also the Mid District 7s tournament. Hilton also led his team on a great run in the WRU Cup that was only ended following a thrilling game at Rodney Parade against reigning cup holders Newport. Seasons 1979-80 and 1980-81 saw Hilton back at the helm as captain and further honours for the club continued. He was also captain of the Mid District rugby union team but had to decline the invitation to tour to Romania owing to work commitments. Following his retirement from playing Hilton went on to coach at junior and youth levels at Abercynon RFC and later took on the role of the Club’s director of rugby.

Indeed, Hilton was a fine rugby player but equally he was a popular, approachable personality who always had a smile – some might say a wicked one - on his face. A bit of a prankster during his playing days there was never a dull moment when he was around and one would be sure his playing colleagues would raise a smile or two at the memory of a typical ‘Bowen’ misdemeanor.

 At this time of great sadness for Hilton’s family hopefully they will find some comfort in knowing that his many friends will be thinking of them in their time of sorrow. Everyone connected with Abercynon RFC offer their sincere condolences to Hilton’s wife Jennifer, daughters Nicola and Paula, son Gareth, their respective partners and grandchildren.

Gareth Withey

The funeral arrangements are Wednesday 26th September 12:45pm at St Margaret's Church Mountain Ash, CF45 4DA

Followed by a committal at Llwydcoed Crematorium at 2:15pm 

The wake will be at Abercynon Rugby Club CF45 4RU

Family flowers only and can any donations be made to the family which will be passed to Velindre hospital.

Thank You