Terry was all gold – tribute to a true stalwart of North Wales football

North Wales football lost one of its greatest servants this week when Caernarfon Town director Terry Roberts passed away suddenly at the age of 72.

Terry was a well-known and popular figure in the game across the north and beyond.

In 2018, he received a Long Service Medal from the FAW for 40-plus years in football.

Across the decades, Terry undertook numerous roles at a variety of clubs including in the early years groundsman, first aid man and committee member for the likes of Brynsiencyn, Newborough, Llanfairpwll and Beaumaris Town.

Successful spells in Sunday League management in the early 1990s was followed by stints on various league committees, before a number of seasons as secretary of Llangefni Town, including their Welsh Premier League campaign of 2007/08.

Terry later became chairman of Gaerwen and was acknowledged at the Welsh Community Football Awards for his NWCFA Lifetime Achievement Award, receiving his accolade from the legendary Ian Rush.

He had been a board member at Caernarfon Town since 2014.

Caernarfon chairman Paul Evans said: “Everyone at Caernarfon Town Football Club is deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Mr Terry Roberts.

“Terry joined Caernarfon Town as a member of the Board in 2014 and has been a hugely popular figure at the club, serving us in a number of important roles.

“In addition to his fantastic service at the Oval, Terry has a long and distinguished career in North Wales football, where he has served numerous clubs, including Llangefni, Gaerwen, Brynsiencyn and Beaumaris Town.

“We were very proud to have Terry as part of our club and wish to send our condolences to his family and friends at this sad time.”

Graham Cohen, secretary of Llangefni Town, where Terry was involved in a number of successful seasons, added: “We are saddened to hear that our former secretary Terry Roberts has passed away.

“During the 15 years he was involved with Llangefni, Terry was an integral part of the club’s success during this period. A strong character who will be missed by all. Our thoughts are with Terry’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

The warm wishes expressed on social media by players, managers, officials and supporters connected with numerous clubs this week reflects the high esteem in which Terry was held.

I knew him well and always found him to be a warm, caring character with a great sense of humour. A gentle giant, but more than capable of expressing a strong, but fair viewpoint when needed.

RIP Terry – North Wales football will not be the same without you. Cysgwch yn dawel.