Cardiff Rugby have honoured the legacy of Peter Thomas CBE by renaming the South Stand at the Arms Park.

The gesture was unveiled ahead of the Blue and Blacks’ European Challenge Cup clash with Sale Sharks and just days after the passing of the club’s Life President.

Thomas’ association with Cardiff RFC and Cardiff Rugby began in the 1960s with Cardiff Youth and spanned six decades.

During that time he made 11 first team appearances, won a Rags cap, was a patron, major benefactor, chairman, Life President and passionate supporter.

His vast contribution to the club has been unrivalled and he leaves a lasting legacy at his beloved club. Even in his final days Cardiff Rugby remained at the forefront of his mind.

You can read the full obituary here:

Now, with the permission of the family, Cardiff Rugby celebrate the contribution of Peter Thomas by renaming the South Stand of the iconic stadium in his name.

The Peter Thomas Stand sponsored Beton Bauen.

Cardiff Rugby chair Alun Jones said: “We have been very fortunate to have had many great players, coaches and administrators at Cardiff such as Peter’s mentor Hurbert Johnson, whom the trophy room is named after.

“But Peter is right up there in the highest pantheon of Cardiff Rugby greats and leaves an unrivalled legacy.

“It it was not for his generoisty, leadership and loyalty, it is no exaggeration to say we would not exist today. Peter has delivered some of our finest moments and has stood beside us throughout the challenges.

“Peter is an enormous part of our history and while the emotion of his passing is still raw, we are delighted to rename the stand in his honour.

“We are very grateful to Steve Davies of Beton Bauen, who sponsor the stand, for supporting us with this decision and to Dragon Signs for delivering the change in such a short space of time.”

The Peter Thomas Stand, sponsored by Beton Bauen, will welcome supporters for the first time since the former hooker’s passing for tonight’s European showdown.

Peter’s entire family will be in attendance at the Arms Park and tributes will be made ahead of kick-off.

A portrait of Peter, to sit alongside that of Hurbert Johnson, had already been commissioned in preparation for the club’s 150th anniversary.

This will now begin in earnest thanks to the support of critically acclaimed portrait artist Nicholas J Smith, with further details to be announced in the coming weeks.