There were emotional scenes at Cardiff Arms Park as players and supporters paid tribute to former chairman and life president Peter Thomas CBE who sadly passed away this week.
Successful businessman Thomas was a giant of Welsh rugby, pouring millions of his own money into Cardiff Rugby with many going as far as to claim the club wouldn't be here without him.
Countless players and coaches owe a lot to Thomas and they paid tribute ahead of tonight's Challenge Cup clash against Sale Sharks.
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It was a touching scene walking into the Arms Park before kick-off with supporters lining up outside the clubhouse to sign a book of condolences.
A couple of hours before the game began Cardiff announced they would be renaming the South Stand, the Peter Thomas Stand so he would forever be a part of the Arms Park.
As kick-off approached Cardiff's staff including the players took the field including director of rugby Dai Young, chief executive Richard Holland, chairman Alun Jones and members of Thomas' family.
The tribute began with a moment's silence, which was impeccably observed, to reflect on the life of Thomas.
Following a period of reflection there followed a minute's applause which seemed fitting given the remarkable service Thomas had given not just Cardiff but Welsh rugby as a whole.
Coach Young left the field in tears.
As current chairman Jones said: "If it was not for Peter, Cardiff Rugby would not be here today and we are eternally grateful for all of his support."
Never a truer word has been spoken.
In terms of the renaming of the south stand, Jones added: “We have been very fortunate to have had many great players, coaches and administrators at Cardiff such as Peter’s mentor Hurbert Johnson, whom the trophy room is named after.
“But Peter is right up there in the highest pantheon of Cardiff Rugby greats and leaves an unrivalled legacy.
“It it was not for his generosity, leadership and loyalty, it is no exaggeration to say we would not exist today. Peter has delivered some of our finest moments and has stood beside us throughout the challenges.
“Peter is an enormous part of our history and while the emotion of his passing is still raw, we are delighted to rename the stand in his honour.
“We are very grateful to Steve Davies of Beton Bauen, who sponsor the stand, for supporting us with this decision and to Dragon Signs for delivering the change in such a short space of time.”
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