FRIENDS of Newport Rugby Trust are delighted to announce former Newport, Wales and British and Irish Lions second row forward Brian Price has accepted an invitation to become their honorary patron.

A hugely popular and well known person in world rugby, and one of Newport RFC's legendary players, one of his greatest moments in an illustrious career was captaining the Black and Ambers to a 3-0 victory over New Zealand in 1963.

He was presented with a certificate from FoNR membership secretary John Evans at the recent third Newport RFC Hall of Fame diner and then went on to tell the more than 200 guests of his love for the club and how proud he was to lead the team.

Price also praised FoNR for all of their efforts to support the current Newport team and rugby at Rodney Parade and made special reference to the work the trust do in preserving the proud and famous history of the club.

A FoNR spokesman said: "We are proud that such a famous player has put his name towards helping the trust continue their work in support of Newport RFC."

Newport are holding their end of season awards dinner at 7pm on Friday, May 23.

Presentations will be made to the player of the season (the Tommy Vile Award), players' player, coaches' player, clubman, FoNR community player and FoNR mascots' player of the season.

Club caps will be given to players who have reached 100 appearances and those that have hit 20 will get their ties.

The event is in the Bisley Suite at Rodney Parade and tickets cost £20, which includes a two-course meal.

Contact Kevin Jarvis of FoNR for more information by ringing 01633 754511 or 07734 740218 or emailing kevin.jarvis@ntlworld.com