A “COACHES vs under-16s” game was held at Rhyl and District Rugby Football Club (RFC) in memory of a “stalwart” who died earlier this year.

Mervyn Picton, who died aged 80 in March, was described as a “great servant to rugby in North Wales”.

On Saturday (May 11), the club held its presentation day, during which the game was also played in his honour.

Players’ shirts bore Mr Picton’s name on the back of them.

Rhyl Journal: Players’ shirts bore Mr Picton’s name on the back of them.Players’ shirts bore Mr Picton’s name on the back of them. (Image: Rhyl RFC)

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‘Stalwart’ of Rhyl RFC was ‘great servant to rugby in North Wales’

Mark Radwell, the club’s junior chairman, said: “Mervyn had been with Rhyl RFC for many, many years, and we all have great memories of him.

“Over 1,000 people turned up on the day, and the coaches won 5-4.”

Following Mr Picton’s death, a club statement read: “All here at Rhyl RFC have been deeply saddened by the recent sudden death of long-time club stalwart, Mervyn Picton.

Rhyl Journal: Mr Picton was described as a “great servant to rugby in North Wales”.Mr Picton was described as a “great servant to rugby in North Wales”. (Image: Rhyl RFC)

“Mervyn had been involved with Rhyl RFC in various roles for longer than most of us can remember.

“He was a rugby man through and through, with a particular passion for refereeing.

“He has encouraged, supported and mentored countless people over many years, as anyone involved in North Wales rugby will have seen.

“North Wales rugby will be a poorer place without him in it, and Rhyl RFC would like to offer our sincere condolences to Barry, Kevin, Andy and all Mervyn’s family and friends.”