THE FATHER of Wales' Grand Slam-winning star Ryan Jones has spoken of the debt his son owes to his rugby breeding in Gwent.

His proud dad Stephen, from High Cross, Newport, said his 24-year-old son was in "ecstasy" after Wales clinched the Grand Slam, Six Nations title and Triple Crown after beating Ireland on Saturday.

The Neath-Swansea Ospreys flanker first starting learning his trade playing in Risca and Newport.

Policeman Mr Jones said: "It was the most wonderful day and we are so proud of Ryan and the rest of the team.

"It was wonderful of Mike Ruddock to allow the families into the changing room area after the match which was very special for the mums and dads.

"Ryan started off with Risca Youth, Newport Youth, UWIC, Bridgend, Celtic Warriors and the Ospreys and he has taken a little part from all the places he has played with him.

"We celebrated with other parents, Gavin's and Michael Owen's, at Cardiff Rugby Club and the crowd were still magnificent when we left there at 10 o'clock."

So is Ryan thinking of British Lions tours and World Cup glory?

His father said: "He's just savouring the mo-ment because this was his first Six Nations tournament and he's a Grand Slam winner."

It has been an amazing turn around for Ryan who was left without a club after the demise of the Celtic Warriors less than a year ago.

Mr Jones said: "He was very low when the Warriors ended. He'd just bought a flat and he had to look for a new club.

"The Ospreys have been very good to him and he's got a great sense of loyalty to Lyn Jones (the Ospreys coach)."

There is talk of a celebratory open-top bus ride in Cardiff. "I think the idea could be good for everyone to share in the success of the team," said Mr Jones.

"When we went to Scotland and France, the support for the team was magnificent and I don't think the fans really know how much the players appreciate them.

"It is like having a 16th player and I've never heard anything like they were on Saturday.

"The game itself was a blur and you've always got your eye on your own boy.

"This team is wonderful. They weren't over-confident. They were focused. "I would like to thank everyone for their good wishes.

"It was a very emotional day and Ryan was ecstatic."

And it could be a double celebration for the former Bassaleg Comprehensive School pupil with the Osprey's poised to win the Celtic League title next weekend.