Last night, the BBC programme The Repair Shop featured a story that will resonate with many Rugbeians. Lloyd Richards (T 81-86), son of the late Bryan Richards, a former member of staff at Rugby School, brought his father’s iconic Welsh rugby jersey to be restored to its former glory.

Accompanied by his wife Karen, Lloyd shared the touching tale behind the jersey, which Bryan had worn as a Welsh international rugby union player during the 1960s. After Bryan’s passing, Karen had attempted to preserve the heirloom for the family by washing and framing it. Unfortunately, her well-intentioned efforts led to disaster: the red dye bled into the white collar, and further attempts to bleach the now pink-tinted collar left marks across the entire garment.

Enter textile conservator Rebecca Bissonnet, whose painstaking craftsmanship not only reversed the damage but also lifted the weight of Karen’s guilt. The result was a beautifully restored jersey, a reminder of Bryan Richards’ remarkable rugby career and enduring legacy.

Bryan Richards (23 November 1932 – 16 December 2023) was a celebrated figure in Welsh rugby, earning his Wales cap as an outside-half during the 1960 Five Nations Championship match against France in Cardiff. He holds the distinction of being the last player to wear the number 6 jersey for Wales—a jersey now lovingly restored, thanks to The Repair Shop.

Richards’ career extended beyond the rugby field. A talented cricketer and Welsh Schools representative, he played for the Glamorgan 2nd XI and captained Swansea Rugby Club during the 1958–59 season. Following his studies at Swansea University and Jesus College, Cambridge—where he earned a Blue in the 1955 Varsity Match—Richards pursued a career in education. He served as Head of Economics at Dulwich College before joining Rugby School, where he became a much-loved housemaster.

Richards’ legacy at Rugby School remains strong, with many Rugbeians fondly remembering his years of service. His family’s ties to the school continue through his grandchildren, several of whom attended Bilton Grange.

Watch the full episode here: The Repair Shop - Series 14: Episode 4 - BBC iPlayer