These are the volunteers at Cwmbran RFC who picked up awards at the club’s first Volunteer Awards evening.
The club estimates that its team of over 100 volunteers contributes over 10,000 hours of time together each year to support 14 rugby teams, its Warm Hub, Sporting Memories and veterans’ activities.
James Rawbone, commercial manager at Cwmbran RFC, said: “There are so many people who deserve thanks for making the evening what it was, but I particularly want to recognise Trish (Hitchens) and the team around her.
“Trish is our finance officer, but more importantly she is a great friend to so many of us at Cwmbran RFC. She and her team took the idea and put an incredible amount of work into turning it into a really special evening.
“The attention to detail, the warmth in the room and the way our volunteers were made to feel valued didn’t happen by accident. That came from people giving their own time to make it happen.
“It seems particularly fitting that an evening created to celebrate volunteering was itself made possible by volunteers.”
The event was held on Friday 25 September 2026.
Special recognition following Barry sea rescue
Anthony Jenkins and Christopher Williams were in Barry when they spotted some swimmers in difficulty. The pair went into the water to rescue them.
James Rawbone, commercial manager at Cwmbran RFC, said: “Anthony and Christopher saw people in difficulty and made the decision to help. We are incredibly proud that these two men are part of our coaching community and that the values they demonstrate within our club extend far beyond it. Recognising them in front of their fellow volunteers felt absolutely right.”
Young Person Volunteer Award
Rhyddian Williams was given the Young Person Volunteer Award.
Rhyddian’s award recognised “the contribution of younger volunteers who step forward, learn new skills and become positive role models within the club.”
Adult Volunteer Award
Jenny Sanderson received the Adult Volunteer Award.
Long Service Volunteer Award.
Ray Bailey was recognised with the Long Service Volunteer Award.
Extra Mile Award
The Extra Mile Award was presented to Sam Rawbone, recognising the kind of contribution familiar to grassroots organisations everywhere: people prepared to step forward, take responsibility and do more when something needs doing.
Sam Williams First Aider Award
Cwmbran RFC’s Sam Williams First Aider Award was presented to Jess Evans, recognising the important responsibility first aiders carry for player welfare and the care of others across the club.
Sam was the first aider for the club’s mini and junior section from 2014 to 2024 and passed away last year.
Jess was unable to make the club’s Volunteer Awards night last Friday so Sam’ brother Scott Williams, and sister, Steph Hobbs presented the award to Jess’ brother Connor Rees- Cwmbran RFC’s youth team captain.
Jess said: “I’m really sorry I couldn’t be there to accept this special award, in person – but I’m incredibly grateful to my brother for accepting this on my behalf and everyone believing I was worthy. I truly do feel so honoured, especially with the award carrying Sam’s name & seeing mine alongside hers. I hope I did her proud out there.”
Community Volunteer Award
Ian Evans was given the Community Volunteer Award.
This award was for: “Recognising volunteering that helps strengthen the relationship between Cwmbran RFC and the community it serves.”