Pontypool RFC call supporters meeting to announce long-term stadium plans

Pontypool played Australia at Pontypool Park in December 1984

Pontypool RFC have called a supporters meeting to make an announcement about their future at Pontypool Park.

It is understood the club will announce its intention to leave the home ground which they have used since 1945.

Anti-social behaviour and vandalism at the Torfaen-council owned stadium are reported to be the reasons for moving to another stadium.

The official announcement from Pontypool RFC to supporters is expected on Tuesday, 17 July.

A council spokesman said the club is "an asset to the community", and it has been working with the police to tackle anti-social behaviour in the park.

"It would be disappointing to see Pontypool RFC leave their spiritual home and the unique setting within Pontypool Park," the spokesman said.

"The council has engaged constructively with the club and have offered guidance surrounding the covenant on the park and the club's aspirations to erect a fence around the rugby pitch, but neither are straightforward and the views of other park users must be considered."

Price hopes for solution

Graham Price has an ambassadorial role at Pontypool RFC as its president

Legendary Pontypool prop Graham Price, whose Wales and British and Irish Lions career was launched at Pontypool Park, believes the issues can be overcome.

He said: "What we are prepared to do - and we are prepared to pay for it - is to fence off the ground to keep all the mindless vandals out.

"But it seems the decisions being made by the council are against it."