A PONTYPOOL archivist is undertaking an ambitious task that sums up his passion for local rugby.

Nine years ago, club archivist and statistician, Ray Ruddick, produced a Pontypool Rugby Football Club history through photographs and memorabilia.

Now, Mr Ruddick is about to undertake a massive project that could take up to ten years to complete.

He will complete a statistical history of the club from 1901 to the present.

This includes recording every match played with the breakdown of the scores both for and against, and every player and scorer. This is a huge task, as Pooler have played around 4,500 games in the last 110 years.

Mr Ruddick, who has been a member of the club since he was nine, said: “I believe I have the list of results for the past ten years, so there is still a large amount of work to be done. We owe it to everyone who has been a fan of Pooler, or played, to keep the record.”

Mr Ruddick explained that local newspapers are forming the basis of his research but he will need help filling in the gaps.

The record will include the world-famous Pontypool Front Row, becoming Monmouthshire champions and winning the WRU Cup in 1983.

He added: “Pontypool RFC were the most feared and consistent club team in the British Isles in the 1980s.

“There have been many players, officers and committee members who have given a sterling service to the club throughout its illustrious and rich history.”

If anyone has any information on the club’s history or team listings or memorabilia, then they can get in touch with Mr Ruddick by e-mailing ray.ruddick@talk21.com or by calling 07531 012849.