RIP Mark Jones

Pontypool RFC is shocked and deeply saddened at the passing of former captain Mark Jones at the age of just 59.

Mark joined Pontypool at the start of the 2001-02 season and played mostly at number 8 and occasionally featured at second row or blind side flanker. He took over the captaincy from Matthew Taylor midway through that 2001-02 season and carried on with the armband through the following season where he led the club to becoming Division One Champions. He made his Pooler debut in the 20-10 home win over Aberavon on 1 September 2001 and his last appearance for the club was clinching the Division One title at the Talbot Athletic Ground with a memorable 40-12 win over Aberavon on 13 May 2003. In total he made 51 league appearances, scoring 13 tries and scored 2 tries in 6 appearances in the cup.

He also played rugby union for Tredegar, Neath, Ebbw Vale and Aberavon as well as making 15 appearances for Wales.

Mark switched to rugby league in the early 1990s and played for Hull and Warrington. He represented Wales on 9 occasions and played for Great Britain before returning to rugby union in 1996.

Everyone at Pontypool RFC sends their deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to Mark’s family and friends