Cardiff Blues are saddened to learn of the untimely passing of John Smart MBE.

‘JR’ had been a benefactor and board member of Cardiff RFC and Cardiff Blues since the inception of professional rugby.

Cardiff Blues chairman Peter Thomas said: “All of our thoughts and sincere condolences go to John’s family following this very sad news.

“John, played for the Rags and became a substantial supporter and investor to Cardiff RFC and then Cardiff Blues.

“The contribution he made was a significant one. Not only was he a great rugby man but an entrepreneur in his own right and a devout family man.”

The thoughts of everyone at Cardiff Blues are with John’s family and friends at this difficult time particularly his wife Kathy and his two sons Gareth and Alex.