Boxers of Wales, The: Merthyr, Aberdare and Pontypridd

Gareth Jones is a journalist who has been writing and broadcasting on boxing in Wales for more than 30 years, including over 15 years as Boxing Correspondent of the South Wales Echo, and a longer period as Welsh Boxing Correspondent of Boxing News. Both his parents were from Merthyr.

"The second 'Boxers of Wales' masterpiece is a must-read for any boxing fan. The tales about lesser known men like lightweight Francis Rossi are as entertaining as those about Welsh legends Howard Winstone and Johnny Owen. Compelling stuff." Steve Lillis, News of the World "The Valleys of South Wales have produced many fighters known worldwide - Howard Winstone, Johnny Owen, the great Freddie Welsh - but this book reminds us that there were others who lit up the ring in their day. At last the likes of Cuthbert Taylor, Eddie Morgan and Boyo Rees have their deeds recognised and recorded too." Gareth A. Davies, Daily Telegraph "Fascinating insight into the greats and not-so-greats of the ring. There's a prizefighter-turned-preacher who threw his once-treasured belt on the fire and the early fight film the public were never allowed to see because it showed two royal princes at ringside." Ron Lewis, The Times "For generations of Merthyr's youth, boxing has been as much a means of self-expression as a way out of grinding poverty. This book does full justice to a sporting tradition that has shaped the town's character and given the world some unforgettable champions." Mario Basini, Author, 'Real Merthyr'