TORFAEN AM Lynne Neagle raised the plight of Pontypool RFC – now facing huge legal costs after losing its High Court action over the Welsh Rugby Union’s decision to relegate it to the Championship – at the Senedd yesterday.

The club was hit with legal costs at an estimated £400,000.

Ms Neagle, said: “Friends and supporters of Pontypool RFC, and many from the wider rugby community, were shocked and dismayed to read in the South Wales Argus news that the WRU are seeking to impose massive legal costs on the club, following their recent High Court challenge.

“Leaving aside the obvious questions of fairness, memories of the Pontypool front row, and the fact that Pontypool were one of the founding members of the union – the survival and success of clubs like Pontypool is critical to the very future of Welsh rugby.

“Minister, will you do everything in your power to make the WRU think again, see sense, and recognise that this move will not only hurt Pontypool, it will do tremendous damage to Welsh rugby more widely.”

In response the Minister for Housing, Regeneration and Heritage, Huw Lewis, said: “Now clearly, this is a matter for the Welsh Rugby Union; this is for the governing body of Welsh Rugby to be taking on board.

“However, I would say that given the court judgement that we’ve heard, I would expect there to be due consideration of the enormously proud history of that fantastic rugby club – Pontypool – and for respect to be given to that.

“And of course, I would expect the interest of players and supporters of Pontypool RFC to be taken into consideration in any further discussions between partners about future outcomes that might impinge upon the club’s health and future.”

MP pledges support and voices disappointment

TORFAEN MP Paul Murphy, pictured, said: “It is for the club and those who know more about the details of the situation to decide what to do next.

“All I can promise is my sincere support as the local MP.

I have always taken immense pride in Pooler as pioneers for our valley, ever since my father took me to watch matches as a young boy.

“It’s a great shame that the WRU seems determined to drive a coach and horses through the history and grassroots of our game, but I know Pooler can fight back from this disappointment.

“Let’s all get behind them to make it happen.”