Wales rugby legend JPR Williams has died at the age of 74, his former club Bridgend Ravens have confirmed.
The former full-back earned 55 caps for Wales during his illustrious playing career between 1969 and 1981, winning three Grand Slams in 1971, 1976 and 1978.
Williams scored 36 points for his nation and also made eight Test appearances for the British & Irish Lions, and his family confirmed that he died after a short illness on Monday at the University Hospital of Wales.
A statement read: "JPR died peacefully today at the University Hospital of Wales surrounded by his loving wife and four children, after a short illness, bravely battling bacterial meningitis. The family request privacy at this difficult time."
Bridgend Ravens are devastated to announce the passing of JPR Williams.
— Bridgend Ravens (@bridgendravens) January 8, 2024
One of Bridgend's most decorated players and an icon of World rugby, JPR served the club most recently as Club President.
Our thoughts are with JPR's family and friends at this sad time 💙
🔵⚪ pic.twitter.com/gUqFuhPWg0
Bridgend Ravens also paid their own tribute to a rugby "icon", saying: "Bridgend Ravens are devastated to announce the passing of JPR Williams.
"An icon of the World game, John Peter Rhys Williams served Bridgend Ravens as a player and most recently as Club President. JPR's passing leaves a huge void at the club, and our thoughts are with his friends and family at this sad time."
Williams was also an accomplished tennis player in his youth and made a living as an orthopaedic surgeon, rejecting the chance to represent the Lions on their 1977 tour to New Zealand to focus on his medical career.
Ben Knapton
