Ashley Beck joins the Ironmen

Merthyr RFC is deeply saddened to watch from afar the difficulties faced by Worcester Warriors and Wasps Rugby. Our thoughts go out to all associated with both rugby clubs.

Whilst the news headline will always focus on the shock demise of a rugby club or clubs, behind every big story, is the unimaginable and immediate impact on displaced individuals and their families. An impact made more complex by the raging cost of living crisis, currently affecting the majority of society.

Like many others from across the rugby family, we have been eager to explore how we might support. We are delighted to announce that we have been able to offer employment to ex-Warriors, Ospreys and Wales centre Ashley Beck, Ashley joining the Ironmen until the end of the current playing season. This move chiming nicely with the Welsh Rugby Union ambition to return quality Welsh Players to the Welsh game. We are conscious that offers from fully professional rugby clubs might materialise in the coming days/weeks. Should a more suitable option surface, we have committed to release Ashley at his request.

We strongly believe our offer of employment has many benefits, first and foremost in offering Ashley and his family the stability of employment. Beyond this, we believe Ashley’s undoubted skillset and experience will offer plenty, both on and off the field. In particular we have a young talented backline, as well as a thriving youth, junior and minis section, who will benefit hugely from Ashley’s experience, presence and tutelage. We are also confident that Ashley’s profile will be of significant value to our club and to the Indigo Premiership brand.

We hope you will join with us in welcoming Ashley to the Wern, a positive outcome in extremely difficult circumstances.

Justin Griffiths

Merthyr RFC Chairman