JPR Williams: Wales and Lions legend dies aged 74

Wales and British & Irish Lions legend JPR Williams has died aged 74.

Williams, who earned 55 caps for his country, played his club rugby for London Welsh, Bridgend and Barbarians, enjoying his best years in the 1970s.

Williams grew up as a young tennis prodigy, winning the British Junior title in 1966, beating David Lloyd 6-4 6-4 at the All England Club.

He switched to rugby in 1967, playing for Bridgend – now known as Bridgend Ravens – and it was the Ravens’ social media channels that announced Williams’ death.

The statement read: “Bridgend Ravens are devastated to announce the passing of JPR Williams.

“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.”

Williams, a full-back by trade, enjoyed his best rugby in international colours and won his first cap for Wales aged 19 in 1969.

He went on to make eight Test appearances in the red of the Lions, with a notable highlight being the 1974 ‘invincible’ series against South Africa.

Williams was one of the first inductees to the International Rugby Hall of Fame in 1997, along with his compatriots Gareth Edwards, Cliff Morgan and Barry John.