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Borderers boosted by special viewing gallery
The combined efforts of the Whitland and Narberth Rotary Club, Whitland RFC, local businesses and people in the community have produced a superb new facility for rugby fans with a disability to watch games at Parc Llwyn Ty Gwyn.
Situated on the Cricket Club side of the touchline, and with the benefit of an elevated position, the new facility allows easy wheelchair access and a splendid view of games involving the Borderers. It came about at the suggestion of the local rotary Club, who had already provided a ramp allowing wheelchair access to the stand at Narberth RFC – and wished to do something for Whitland that would also help rugby lovers with a disability.
Great idea
The idea for the viewing gallery came about after several disabled rugby lovers found it difficult to watch from cars because their view was inevitably impeded by spectators leaning on the barriers above the touchline. The facility was designed by Ken Morgan, who also oversaw the project, using his wealth of experience as an architect, with Whitland RFC vice-chairman Richard Merriman acting as the liaison officer for the club.
“We were delighted at the suggestion and even more delighted now that the project has been completed,” said Richard, “and we owe huge thanks to the generosity of local firms who supplied machinery and equipment, and lots of hard work by the Rotarians in doing all the painting.”
Official opening
The viewing galley was officially opened by Tim Burton, from the WRU, who works on community links with the clubs, who said that it was a wonderful idea which would surely be followed by other clubs. It was perhaps appropriate that Peter Wills and Dr Malcolm Holding, both Rotarians and Whitland RFC stalwarts, were in attendance as the keys were handed over by Ted Davies, on behalf of the Narberth & Whitland Rotary Club, to Brian Cook OBE, the president of Whitland RFC.
“We are extremely grateful to the Narberth and Whitland Rotary Club for their generosity in providing us with this new facility,” said Brian, “since it will allow stalwarts like Brian Morgan to enjoy matches in comfort. It also shows the part that both rotary and rugby play in our community because the support from businesses in proving help was very heart-warming. Providing facilities for those with a disability is something that is close to my heart on a family basis and I am thrilled with this latest stage in our club’s development.”
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