Sir Bill Beaumont and Jonathan Davies among those from the rugby world paying tribute to

Greats from the rugby world have come together to pay tribute to Wales and Lions legend JPR Williams, who has died at the age of 74.

The former full back captained Wales and Bridgend, winning 55 caps for his country, as well as forming part of the historic Lions tours in 1971 and 1974. 

Welsh Premiership side Bridgend confirmed his death in an emotional tribute on social media,and other icons from the sport were quick to follow up with their own tributes to JPR Williams. 

World Rugby chairman Sir Bill Beaumont wrote on X (formerly Twitter): ‘Very sad news. We have lost a true giant of the game. A legend for Wales & the Lions during an incredible era for welsh rugby. My thoughts are with JPR’s family and friends.’

Former Wales international Lee Jarvis wrote: ‘JPR Williams. What an Icon .What a legend. A true great and warrior on the field.

Rugby greats have come together to pay tribute to JPR Williams, who has died at the age of 74 

Figures from rugby and Wales paid their respects to Williams after his death on Monday

‘Never ever took a backward step playing the game he loved. RIP JPR.’

Fellow Welsh player turned TV commentator Jonathan Davies added: ‘RIP JPR another legend goes to early. Thank you for the memories.’ 

Meanwhile, Wales football icon John Hartson wrote: ‘Sorry to hear one of Wales’s finest rugby players has passed away.

‘Was fortunate to be in the company of JPR on a few occasions.. true legend of Welsh sport.. sending my condolences to the Williams family.. RIP.’ 

Williams will be remembered as one of the greatest to have ever played rugby, and alongside his fellow Wales internationals Sir Gareth Edwards and Phil Bennett, he was synonymous with the glorious era of the 1970s.

In a statement, Williams’s family said: ‘JPR died peacefully today at the University Hospital of Wales surrounded by his loving wife and four children after a short illness, bravely battling bacterial meningitis. 

‘The family request privacy at this difficult time.’