An incredible milestone was reached at Llanharan RFC on Saturday October 20th when George Gomer Latham celebrated his 100th birthday. The club’s oldest surviving player saw the light of day for the first time in the same year that the First World War came to an end, and survived the hard years of the interwar period to begin his rugby career in the 1930s. George was a stalwart of the team’s pack, and after a long career maintained his association with the Black and Blues as a faithful supporter. The man who was well regarded as a local builder barely missed a game, and following the club’s move to the Dairyfield regularly made the climb to his seat in the stand. Sadly his devoted following was interrupted this season by an illness that led to a spell in hospital. But, George was determined that the special day would be spent at his beloved Llanharan RFC. His doctors granted him dispensation to attend the club on Saturday afternoon while the 1st XV were doing battle with Abercwmboi.

A small ceremony was conducted in the lounge where his grandchildren presented him with a specially commissioned Llanharan shirt, his name on the back along with the number one, reflecting the front row position which he excelled in for so many years.

Club president Randall Martin also handed him a plaque and supporters’ hat to mark a special day.

George really enjoyed the event, but had to return to hospital soon after. Everyone at the Dairyfield joins in the congratulations showered on this popular and remarkable man, and all hope that he will soon be back in his seat at the front of the stand.