Ospreys bosses have paid tribute to kitman Roy Evans following the confirmation that he is to retire at the end of this season, describing him as a "true stalwart of rugby in the region".
Roy's retirement will being to an end 39 years of involvement in the game, firstly with Neath RFC in a variety of roles including groundsman and kitman, and for the last five years with the Ospreys.
Renowned for his round the clock commitment to the cause, his hard work ethic and his sense of humour, he has been a positive influence on generations of top-level players in the region for almost four decades. Much loved by players, staff and supporters alike, Roy is looking forward to spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren.
Paying tribute to Roy for his services, Managing Director, Roger Blyth, said:
"Roy is one of those characters seemingly from a bygone era, a true stalwart of rugby in the region whose loyalty to Neath and then the Ospreys has been unflinching through the years. He's been a familiar sight on the sidelines in his shorts, whatever the weather, for many years now.
"Nothing has ever been too much trouble for him, no job too big or small. If it needed doing, he was the man, and it would inevitably be done with a smile on his face. His enthusiasm in everything he does is infectious and he has always been a tremendous ambassador for the club he loves and the region he loves. The years of service he has put into the game is commendable.
"It's a sad but inevitable day that Roy has decided to step down to spend more time with his family, but his are big shoes to fill and he will be sorely missed by everyone involved with the Ospreys."
Chief Operations Officer, Andrew Hore, echoed those thoughts saying:
"It's fair to say that Roy is someone who has impacted on everyone involved with Ospreys Rugby, players, directors, staff and supporters alike. Hard working, dedicated and with a mischievous sense of humour he is everything the Ospreys are about so it's no wonder he has made such an impact.
"Every rugby team, from the elite game right through to local community clubs, needs characters like Roy, people who are selfless, always giving and prepared to go the extra mile. If you speak to anyone at the Ospreys or Neath, they will all have their own story about Roy that will put a smile on your face. The players and coaches in particular have worked closely with him and he has always been someone you can depend on when the going gets tough.
"While we are very sad that he will be leaving us once the season is over, we totally understand why he has decided that now is the right time to put his feet up. Ospreys Rugby is losing someone special but he remains a part of our family and will no doubt continue to be a familiar face at the Liberty on a matchday for many years to come."