WRU pays tribute to former Stadium Manager

He was the inaugural Stadium Manager when the Millennium Stadium opened to host the 1999 Rugby World Cup. He was instrumental in the huge success of rugby’s greatest tournament and one of several important figures who ensured the stadium was delivered on time for the event that was hailed across the rugby world.
 
During his time at the helm, he put in place may of the founding stadium safety and security documents which are still in use today at the home of Welsh sport.
 
Alongside his contribution to Welsh rugby internationals, his six year tenure included an impressive list of major sporting events such as the FA Cup and Carling Cup finals during the construction of Wembley, as well as the Rugby League World Cup and concerts from international artists from Tina Turner to Robbie Williams.
 
He joined the Millennium Stadium from South Wales Police where he rose through the ranks to the position of acting Chief Constable, holding a number of important positions along the way including Chief Superintendent in Merthyr. He retired in 2005 to spend more time with his loving family.
 
WRU President Dennis Gethin said: “Bob was the Stadium Manager when the Stadium first opened its doors in 1999 to host the Rugby World Cup. I was the secretary of the Union at the time and so I know what a huge and ambitious undertaking this was for a brand new stadium.
 
“Bob was a significant and positive influence during the final preparations for and the hosting of the world’s most important rugby tournament. On behalf of the Welsh Rugby Union, I thank Bob for his dedication during that time and impact that has left a lasting legacy on the game in Wales. 
 
“When the eyes of the world were on Wales for 1999 Tournament, all of the great rugby nations agreed that it was the most successful World Cup tournament at that time. Much of the success was down to Bob and we knew then, and in the next six years while he was at the WRU, that we were in safe hands. 
 
“His memory will live on with all those friends and colleagues that had the privilege of working with him throughout a successful career which also saw him rise to the highest rank at South Wales Police.
 
“Bob was a fantastic man and has always been a dear and close friend and I know his loss will be felt by his family and everyone close to him. He was also an incredibly generous individual and a keen supporter of the Welsh Rugby Charitable Trust, which supports rugby players who have been seriously injured. The annual golf day at Whitchurch Golf Club was always great fun and a massive support to the Trust and I know that Bob will be remembered by so many people involved in the wider rugby family in Wales as a result.”