On Thursday ( February 2), a crowd of nearly 700 joined together in memory of the great Eddie Butler, in an occasion that inspired “tears, laughter and a flood of memories.”

The memorial was held at Abergavenny Market Hall, Monmouthshire and live streamed at The Kings Arms, hosted by broadcaster Clare Balding.

A number of familiar faces were in attendance, including Wales Internationals: Gareth Edwards, Robert Jones, Jonathan Davies, Robert Norster, Gwyn Jones and Graham Price. Ex-England player, Jeremy Guscott and former Wales Coach- Robin McBride also came to pay their respects.

The echoes of ‘Calon Lan’ sang by the Beaufort Male Choir could be heard seeping through the streets of Abergavenny in a beautiful tribute to the rugby legend, who was described as a “lyricist”.

Cambridge Blue and British Lion, Eddie Butler first rose to prominence with his rugby at Monmouth School for Boys then playing for Ray Prosser’s Pontypool team, which was famously referenced in Max Boyce’s homage to the ‘Pontypool Front Row’.

He then went on to make 16 appearances for Wales between 1980 and 1984, captaining the side on six occasions.

He was called up to the British and Irish Lions squad that toured New Zealand in 1983.

Beyond his time as a player, Eddie Butler became prolific as a commentator and writer; highly regarded for his gift with words.

The popular commentator and former pupil at Monmouth School for Boys died in his sleep in September 2022, aged 65, while taking part in a charity trek in Peru.

Headmaster at Monmouth School for Boys, Mr Simon Dorman, and former Development Director, Mrs Clare Anning, were among the guests at the service.

The much loved and popular sportsman and commentator will be remembered by his family, friends and colleagues for his kindness and generosity.

To watch the live stream recording of Eddie’s uplifting memorial service, please visit:

https://youtube.com/live/zL-90rterCI?feature=share