Newport RFC celebrates 150th anniversary with gala dinner at Celtic Manor

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On Saturday night, many Newport RFC legends will be at Celtic Manor to toast the club's 150th anniversary season and Brian Jones will be one of them, even if he disagrees with such an accolade.

Founded in 1874, Black and Ambers celebrates another milestone with a gala dinner for over 700 people.

Former favorites and some titans of the game will be remembered by former players and fans, with 88-year-old “BJ” no doubt holding court.

The Black and Ambers have been around for 150 years and Jones, who made his debut in 1953, has been part of the club for almost half that time – the nickname 'Mr. Newport' is justified.

“I started out as a player as an 18-year-old schoolboy and now I'm the president,” said Jones, a captivating storyteller who could rival Ken Dodd.

“For over 71 years I have been a player, captain, coach, chairman, committee member, selector, press officer, commentator on hospital programmes…

“All of these roles have resulted in me becoming friends with some of the big names in Welsh rugby – and some of the big names in world rugby.”

The Argus after Newport's famous victory over New Zealand (Image: PETER DASH)

Jones played 330 games for Newport and was a member of the teams that defeated Australia in 1957 and New Zealand in 1963.

That famous triumph at Rodney Parade over an All Blacks side that had won 34 of its 35 tour games and drawn one completed the centre's personal hat-trick in the southern hemisphere, defeating South Africa with the Barbarians in 1960.

For Jones, who played for Wales against Ireland and France in 1960, it all began in December 1953 against Harlequins.

“I remember it clearly,” he said. “I played for United against Llanharan on October 10th – my 18th birthday.

“I soon made my debut due to injuries in the first team. Ken Jones was captain, but that Saturday he scored for Wales and beat the All Blacks. Six games later I was playing for Newport against them.”

Although Jones lost this time, he was part of the team that defeated Wilson Whineray's New Zealand.

This success is celebrated every year on October 30th, but the former center is quick to point out – somewhat surprisingly – a different performance against a touring team.

“As hard as it is to say, the Newport game against the Springboks in 1961 was better in terms of performance than the All Blacks game,” Jones said.

“The performance was incredible, especially from the team, even though it was a defeat. The undersigned missed three shots on goal, so I take the blame!”

Another frustrating occasion helped make this memorable victory in modern times even more special for Jones.

“March 26, 2022 will be remembered forever and will always be one of the highlights of rugby,” he said.

“I was chairman and sat in the stands at Sardis Road when Newport beat Cardiff in the cup semi-final and went on to win four games against them in one season.

“Before the game, Ty Morris, his coaching staff and the players said, 'We're going to win it for BJ.' That meant a hell of a lot to me.”

“When I came into the dressing room at the end of the game, it was unbelievable. My wife said it was totally different to 1969!

“I was Newport manager at the time and we had a damn good team but after beating Cardiff three times we drew at the Arms Park with Gareth Edwards scoring all the points for them.

“I was in such a state that I got into my brand new company car and smashed the blind. I've experienced disappointments as a player, but never anything like this.”

SUPERSTAR: Former Newport connector David Watkins, who died last year (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

Morris' team gave Jones a highlight two years ago and he remains their go-to guy for stories from the past, from greats like Dai Watkins, Ken Jones, Roy Burnett, Bryn Meredith and Brian Price.

“Newport had the game's first superstar in Arthur Gould and the club will have had legends in each generation that follows,” he said.

“They probably enjoyed playing for the club and their teammates. I just enjoyed being called up to the first team alongside such great players.

“I want the 150th season to be celebrated in a way that reminds everyone what they owe to Newport in one form or another.”

ICONIC: Springboks legend Gary Teichman had a successful time at Newport (Image: Newsquest)

“BJ” has his wife Jacqueline, his daughter Lisa and his granddaughter Caitlin, but will spend Saturday night with the rest of the “family”.

“I would like to think of Newport Rugby Club as a family, whether you are a player, administrator, member or supporter,” said Jones, who will no doubt shed a tear when remembering deceased former teammates.

“For me, everyone is part of the Black and Amber family and I have felt that since the first day of my active time.

“The number of former players who will either be there or have come forward to celebrate the evening just shows what Newport Rugby Club is all about.”

Jones loves to list famous names who have worn black and amber. But when asked if he is a legend, he promptly replies: “Absolutely not!”

Many will tell him otherwise when the famous club toasts its big 150s festival this weekend.