Villagers from Senghenydd have bought an historic watch after they successfully bid for it at an auction.
Presented in 1923 to Llew Jenkins, the first rugby player from Senghenydd to be capped for Wales, the watch and chain was a gift from his fellow villagers.
The items were auctioned today at Bonhams in Chester and villagers have clubbed together to bring them back home for display by the Aber Valley Heritage Group.
Gill Jones from the heritage group said she was given a photocopy of a programme from the 1923 presentation at the Gwernymilwr Hall in Senghenydd.
She wrote an article in the Aber Valley newsletter asking for further information and was contacted by Mr Jenkins’ niece, who contacted his son David, who lives in Worcester.
He visited the heritage centre and brought his father’s memorabilia including the inscribed watch and chain, his caps and photographs.
The heritage group had hoped exhibit of the items but discovered they were being valued for auction.
It was too late to buy the items direct from Mr Jenkins as he had already signed a contract with Bonhams.
The group though were today the highest bidders and bought the watch for £820 at auction.
Gill Jones from the Aber Valley Heritage Group, travelled up to Chester for the sale.
She said: “It’s absolutely wonderful.
“We’re extremely thrilled to have got the watch to take back to the Aber Valley. It’s gone full circle and now it will be on show at the heritage centre for people to have a look at it.”