Scarlets are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the great Barry John, who has died at the age of 79.
An icon of world rugby, Barry was nicknamed ‘The King’ following his incredible performances in the red of Wales and the British & Irish Lions.
Born in Cefneithin in the Gwendraeth Valley, Barry went to school at Gwendraeth Grammar and Trinity College, Carmarthen, playing his early rugby for his home village and also Pontyberem.
He made his Llanelli debut at the age of 18 against Birmingham Moseley in 1964 and went on to make 87 appearances for the club, scoring 210 points, including 17 tries and 36 drop goals.
He played for the Scarlets against the Barbarians in 1965 and was at fly-half for the 11-0 win over Australia at Stradey Park in 1967, scoring a try and a drop goal to help claim the scalp of the tourists.
He joined Cardiff RFC in 1967 and played 25 Tests for Wales and five for the Lions, starring in the historic 2-1 victory over the All Blacks in 1971. He retired the following year at the age of just 27.
Barry is the brother-in-law of our club president Derek Quinnell and our thoughts are with the family at this sad time.