TRIBUTES have been paid to one of Rhyl FC’s most popular managers, who has died aged 77.
Gordon Richard Jones, commonly known as Dic, led the Lilywhites to Cheshire League glory and FA Cup giantkilling success while at the Belle Vue helm in the early 1970s, with his achievements fondly remembered by current Rhyl staff this week.
During Rhyl’s 2-0 win at Porthmadog on Saturday, players wore black armbands in his memory and a moving minute’s silence was held before kick-off.
In a statement, Rhyl’s managing director Dave Milner conveyed the club’s sorrow at the news of Dic’s death and spoke of his popularity.
He said: “Rhyl Football Club are saddened to announce the passing of former manager Dic Jones. Dic managed the team with great distinction in the early 1970s and was a much loved and popular figure throughout hs time at Belle Vue.
“Under his leadership the Lilywhites won the Cheshire League championship and achieved national coverage when beating Barnsley at Old Trafford. Our deepest sympathies go out to Dic’s family.”
A former professional player with Crewe Alexandra, Llanrwst-born Dic briefly played for Rhyl in the early 1960s and was later part of the club’s coaching staff. But it was his stint as manager that began in 1970 that would make him synonymous with the club.
The most famous achievement during Dic’s time in charge of Rhyl came during 1970-71, when the Lilywhites reached the FA Cup third round.
After winning four qualifying rounds and then beating Hartlepool in the first round, another Football League side, Barnsley, were taken to a second replay at the neutral venue of Manchester United’s Old Trafford home as Rhyl recorded another historic victory.
Although the cup run ended with a heavy 6-1 defeat at Swansea in the third round, Rhyl had won many plaudits and the success continued into the following campaign when they claimed the Cheshire League title and Welsh Amateur Cup.
In 1974 Dic moved along the North Wales coast to join Bangor City as manager. He also had spells in charge of Oswestry Town and the North Wales Coast FA side.
Dic, who lived in Rhuddlan, died on February 15. He leaves children Babs and Keith, son-in-law Chris, daughter-in-law Val, grandchildren Hannah, Ryan and Keri and great grandchild Maddison.
His funeral was held at St Mary’s Parish Church, Rhuddlan, on Monday ((Feb 22), followed by cremation at Colwyn Bay Crematorium.