Triumphed after stuttering start

FORMER Wales dual-code rugby international, Mark Jones, was known as a hard man of the game but beneath the tough-guy exterior he was a man struggling with an excruciating stammer that left him crippled with shyness.

- 

Born in Tredegar he began his senior rugby career in union with Tredegar Ironsides before joining Tredegar RFC, then on to Neath in 1985, at the time one of the powerhouses of Welsh rugby.

The No.8 soon began honing his reputation as one of the hard men of the game being sent-off six times and banned for more than 33 weeks for violent conduct.

Only later did he admit his severe speech impediment had blighted his childhood, confidence and career.