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Former Wales U21s prop Geraint Liddon has passed away after a brave battle with cancer
Former Beddau, Caerphilly and Pontypridd prop Gerain Liddon has died at the age of 45 after a brave battle with cancer.
The former Wales U21s front-row passed away on Tuesday, having been diagnosed just months ago. Geraint, affectionately known as ‘Gazza’ had fallen ill after walking his dog.
Following the diagnosis, Geraint had an operation to remove an almost three-stone tumour. Unfortunately, the cancer returned in recent weeks – with Geraint undergoing palliative care in his final days.
During his playing days, Geraint played age-grade rugby for Wales – while he also reached a European final with Caerphilly.
Since being diagnosed with cancer, Geraint had raised over £4,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
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And, when he was unable to attend concerts he had planned in his final weeks, he sold his tickets and donated the money to another charity close to his heart, 4Dewi Mental Health.
Paying tribute to Geraint, Beddau RFC posted on social media: “There are moments when words simply do not seem enough. This is undoubtedly one of the most difficult tributes Beddau RFC has ever had to write and one we wholeheartedly wish we didn’t need to.
“On Tuesday, we said “Goodbye” to one of our own. Geraint “Gazza” Liddon was so much more than an outstanding rugby player. A cherished friend, a larger than life character and undoubtedly one of the most popular people ever to have walked through the doors of our club. Born into a much-loved Beddau family, Gazza was part of the fabric of our club from an early age, and his passing leaves an immeasurable, unfillable void.
“Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Gazza will remember his infectious personality. He loved nothing more than sharing a laugh, enjoying good banter, and lighting up every room with his trademark mischievous smile. His sense of humour was second to none, and he had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome. His friendship was genuine, his loyalty unwavering and his company treasured by so many.
“On the field, Gazza enjoyed a distinguished rugby career. He proudly made more than 200 appearances for Beddau RFC, giving everything he had every time he pulled on the Green and Gold jersey. His talents also saw him represent Pontypridd and Caerphilly with distinction, reaching European Cup finals with the latter. One of his proudest achievements was to have represented Wales at Under 20s level.
“Gazza was also a proud member of one of the greatest sides in Beddau RFC’s history playing a significant role in the club’s title winning team. That squad, shared and enjoyed unforgettable success on the field but what made them truly special was the bond they forged off it remaining a tight-knit group to this very day.
“Gazza was at the heart of that brotherhood and the memories they created together will be cherished forever by those remaining and reminisced about frequently.
“Whatever Gazza turned his hand to, he excelled at it. Away from rugby he was a passionate golfer, loved pushing himself through CrossFit and more recently found another passion becoming a member of a large motorbike club. He embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm, energy and commitment, building lifelong friendships wherever life took him.
“Above all Gazza was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud son, a caring brother and an extremely loyal friend. He touched the lives of countless people, and the memories he created will live with us forever. His untimely passing has left us all heartbroken. It is almost impossible to comprehend that someone who gave so much to so many asking nothing in return has been taken from us far too soon.
“Everyone here at Beddau RFC extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to his wife, Kirsty, his two beautiful daughters, his family, and his many close friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this unimaginably difficult time. We share your loss.
“Rest easy Gazza bach and thank you for the memories, the laughter, the friendship and for everything you contributed to our club. This club will ensure your name is never forgotten.
“Gazza, forever be a Beddau man.”
A gofund.me page has already raised £32,000 of its £40,000 target to support his wife Kirsty and two daughters. You can find the link here.
Another of his former clubs, Pontypridd, also paid tribute to Geraint following the news of his passing.
“Pontypridd RFC are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Geraint Liddon, who passed away on Tuesday after a brave battle with cancer,” they said.
“Geraint made his senior debut for Ponty on 4th September 2004 away against Cardiff in the Welsh Premiership, and would go on to make 30 appearances in total throughout the 2004/05 season.
“A tough versatile prop, Geraint was comfortable packing down on both sides of the scrum, and played for both Pontypridd Youth and Academy sides before going on to make his mark with Caerphilly RFC. Having won representative honours with Wales U21s, he made the move back to the Valley Commandos in 2004 for his sole senior season with the club before departing and going on to have a stellar career with Beddau RFC.
“Everyone at Pontypridd RFC would like to pass on its sincerest condolences to Geraint’s wife, his two daughters and the rest of his family and friends at this extremely sad time.”
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