News

During the last few days two stalwarts of the local community have sadly passed away. Alby Davies and Keith Peacock have long been associated with the town of Abercynon. Each in their own way of course, with Alby having diligently represented Abercynon as a councillor for over 40 years and Keith for his long standing tenure as landlord of the Thorn Hotel. Both though have strong connections with the Rugby Club and the following is written in appreciation of their allegiance to Abercynon RFC.

Alby Davies: As a sportsman Alby excelled at everything he did. His diminutive size belied his natural boxing ability, tenacity and determination to come out on top as he did many times against taller and long-reaching opponents. He was a lifelong friend of former European and Empire flyweight champion David (Dai) Dower and the two often sparred together with Dai often coming off second best. As a footballer of some note Alby was in demand and played professionally for a number of Welsh clubs. Playing cricket was also close to Alby’s heart but playing rugby doesn’t appear to have been on his sporting agenda although he joked that at 5’-2” he could have done a job in the second row.

Alby Davies MBE, twice Mayor of Cynon Valley and RCT and a long standing supporter and Honorary Member of Abercynon RFC will be sorely missed. Our sincere condolences go out to daughters Anne and Lynfa, grand-daughters Kirsty and Zoe, great granddaughter Isobel and great-grandson Reuben.

Keith Peacock: Keith took over the running of the old Rugby Club in the early 1980s following a period of short term appointments. Keith’s prowess behind the bar enabled stability and he was at the helm when the Club uprooted from its Margaret Street location in 1985 to its current base at Y Parc. Keith’s sporting love however, was Cardiff City FC although he turned out quite a few times for the second XV. The Club benefitted immensely from his stewardship and running the popular Sunday night Disco’s but Keith’s ambition was to run a hostelry of his own and consequently after serving over 10 years at The Club he left to manage the Thorn Hotel.

Up until his passing it was not unusual for Keith to be seen climbing up and down the ladders and taking huge pride in doing a fantastic job renovating his beloved Thorn Hotel. Its completion will be a lasting legacy to a popular landlord. Abercynon RFC offer sincere condolences to Keith’s wife Carol, daughters Tania and Alison, and to their extended families and friends.

Gareth Withey