TV's Repair Shop fixes ruined historic rugby shirt
Karen Richards could not believe it when she put her late father-in-law's precious international rugby jersey in the washing machine - and it came out damaged.
Bryan Richards, who grew up in Skewen, Neath Port Talbot, was the last Wales player to wear a number six shirt as a fly-half, which made it a piece of sporting history.
After going through the wash the red from the shirt ran into the white collar, and things got worse when Karen tried to bleach it.
She and husband Lloyd Richards, who live in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, tried in vain to find someone to fix it - until as a last resort they decided to call BBC One's The Repair Shop.
"My heart sank, it was such a precious family heirloom and I had ruined it," mum-of-two Karen said.
The devastated 51-year-old said she felt she had done a disservice to Bryan, who died aged 91 in December 2023.
He wore the shirt against France at Cardiff Arms Park on 26 March 1960.
Then they got The Repair Shop involved.
"Within three or four weeks we were down there," said Lloyd, 56.
Rebecca Bissonnet restored the shirt on the show by examining the red stitching, which would have matched the jersey.
The textile conservator believed the stitching was polyester so unaffected by the bleaching.
After removing the six, the collar and the three feathers she dyed the top its original red.
'I understand why Coote hid his sexuality' - Owens
'My alligator has escaped' among 999 ambulance calls
Welsh tech billionaire son's film up for 10 Oscars
A piece of grainy footage of Bryan playing was also restored on the programme.
Bryan had told his son he would train by running up and down the slag heaps behind his house.
As well as Wales, he played for Neath, the Barbarians and captained Swansea.
But the pinnacle of his rugby career was playing for his country, mortgage adviser Lloyd said.
The jersey now has pride of place in a clear acrylic box in Lloyd's home office.
Karen said Bryan would have been "a bit bemused by it all".
"He didn't really tell anyone about his experiences," she said.
The couple were delighted to have the jersey looking as good as new.
"Never for one minute did I think it was going to look as good as it does," Karen said.
The Repair Shop is on on BBC One at 20:00 GMT on Wednesdays and on BBC iPlayer
Cardiff tourism tax could help host events - leader
Knighthood for Welsh rugby great Gerald Davies
Call for danger warnings to rugby parents over dementia fears
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
21 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Will mother and son from Suffolk win hit BBC One Show?
The final episode of a BBC One competition is set to hit our TV screens tonight and we have one question - could it be won by a duo from Suffolk? Mother and son Caroline and Tom, from Bury St Edmunds, have been traversing through Asia in the latest series of Race Across the World. The pair, who described themselves as "unlikely travel companions", started on the Great Wall of China and had to compete against other duos to get to Kanyakumari on the southern tip of India. At the end of the last episode, Caroline and Tom were the first pair to sign the check-in book, earning them the chance to win £20,000. In the penultimate episode, Caroline said: "I can't believe we are first, it's the most incredible feeling." READ MORE: Young family look for perfect Suffolk home on hit TV show As they were the first to reach the checkpoint, they will be the first to leave Panaji and race to Kanyakumari. There are six hours ahead of Elizabeth and Letitia, who are in second place, and 17 hours ahead of Brian and Melvyn in fourth place. However, working for budget and sightseeing along the way could mean other pairs could make up time along the final stretch. Speaking about who they think the biggest competition is, Tom said: "I think Fin and Sioned are the people to look out for as they managed to make a massive comeback and when it comes to the run route, they can run quicker and faster than we can, so that's a worry." How much budget do Caroline and Tom have? Each pair started the race with a budget of £2,280 which worked at to around £22 per day. The initial budget is based on the cost of the ticket to fly from the start point to the end point. Pairs can earn more money to spend throughout the competition by working in the places and countries they visit. After spending around £30 on train tickets to the final checkpoint, Caroline and Tom were left with a budget of 29%. READ MORE: All you need to know ahead of big name summer concerts Alfie Watts, who won the previous series of Race Across the World, took to social media to share who he thinks will take the crown. He thinks Caroline and Tom will win, but it could be close between them and Elizabeth and Letitia. The final episode of Race Across the World airs at 9pm on BBC One on Wednesday, June 11.
Time Magazine
3 hours ago
- Time Magazine
The 10 Best Sports Movies of All Time According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. Sports movies have a unique way of bringing people together. They're not just about the games themselves but about the human stories behind the competition. They capture the grit, determination, and emotional highs and lows of athletes and teams, often reflecting universal truths about resilience, teamwork, and the pursuit of greatness. What sets sports movies apart is their ability to resonate with everyone, not just sports fans. They explore relatable themes like overcoming adversity, chasing dreams, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of excellence. Whether it's an underdog story, a personal journey, or a tale of triumph against all odds, these films inspire and uplift us. This list dives into the 10 best sports movies of all time, with research assistance from ChatGPT. These cinematic gems not only capture the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat but also deliver unforgettable characters and moments that linger with us long after the credits roll. 1. Rocky (1976) The ultimate underdog story, 'Rocky' follows Rocky Balboa, a struggling boxer from Philadelphia, as he gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to fight the heavyweight champion of the world. Sylvester Stallone's portrayal of Rocky, combined with the film's gritty realism and heartwarming narrative, turned this movie into a cultural phenomenon. Director: John G. Avildsen Awards: Won three Oscars, including Best Picture Iconic Scene: Rocky running up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art Legacy: Launched a franchise with multiple sequels and spinoffs Impact: Inspired generations to chase their dreams against all odds Memorable Quote: 'It ain't about how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.' 2. Remember the Titans (2000) Set in the racially divided 1970s, 'Remember the Titans' tells the true story of a high school football team in Virginia as they come together under the leadership of Coach Herman Boone. The film is a powerful exploration of unity, leadership, and overcoming prejudice through sports. Director: Boaz Yakin Based on: The true story of the 1971 T.C. Williams High School football team Starring: Denzel Washington as Coach Herman Boone Impact: Highlighted the power of sports to bring people together Key Themes: Teamwork, racial harmony, and perseverance Memorable Quote: 'This is where they fought the Battle of Gettysburg. Fifty thousand men died right here on this field, fighting the same fight that we are still fighting among ourselves today.' 3. Field of Dreams (1989) 'Field of Dreams' is a heartfelt tale of redemption, family, and the enduring magic of baseball. When farmer Ray Kinsella hears a mysterious voice telling him to build a baseball diamond in his cornfield, he embarks on a journey that blurs the line between reality and fantasy. Director: Phil Alden Robinson Starring: Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, and Ray Liotta Iconic Line: 'If you build it, he will come.' Themes: Forgiveness, nostalgia, and the father-son bond Awards: Nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture Legacy: Considered one of the most moving sports films ever made 4. The Sandlot (1993) A nostalgic look at childhood and the love of baseball, 'The Sandlot' tells the story of a group of kids who spend their summer playing ball and forming lifelong friendships. The film is a celebration of innocence, adventure, and the joy of sports. Director: David Mickey Evans Starring: Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, and James Earl Jones Iconic Scene: The boys retrieving a baseball signed by Babe Ruth from a monstrous dog Legacy: A cult classic beloved by fans of all ages Themes: Friendship, teamwork, and the magic of youth Memorable Quote: 'You're killing me, Smalls!' 5. Hoosiers (1986) 'Hoosiers' is the quintessential basketball movie, based on the true story of a small-town Indiana high school basketball team that defies the odds to win the state championship. The film highlights the importance of discipline, teamwork, and believing in the impossible. Director: David Anspaugh Starring: Gene Hackman, Dennis Hopper, and Barbara Hershey Based on: Milan High School's 1954 championship season Awards: Two Oscar nominations, including Best Supporting Actor for Dennis Hopper Key Themes: Redemption, perseverance, and small-town pride Memorable Quote: 'I don't care what the scoreboard says at the end of the game, in my book, we're gonna be winners.' 6. Raging Bull (1980) Martin Scorsese's 'Raging Bull' is a brutal and unflinching portrayal of boxer Jake LaMotta's rise and fall. With Robert De Niro's Oscar-winning performance, the film examines themes of jealousy, self-destruction, and redemption, making it a masterpiece of sports and character study. Director: Martin Scorsese Starring: Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Cathy Moriarty Based on: The autobiography of Jake LaMotta Awards: Won two Oscars, including Best Actor for De Niro Legacy: Hailed as one of the greatest films ever made Themes: The dark side of ambition and the pursuit of greatness 7. Chariots of Fire (1981) 'Chariots of Fire' is the inspiring story of two British runners competing in the 1924 Olympics—one driven by religious faith, the other by a desire to prove his worth. Its iconic theme music and powerful narrative make it one of the most memorable sports films. Director: Hugh Hudson Awards: Won four Oscars, including Best Picture Iconic Score: Vangelis' legendary theme music Themes: Faith, determination, and the Olympic spirit Legacy: A timeless classic that celebrates the human spirit Memorable Line: 'I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.' 8. Moneyball (2011) 'Moneyball' tells the story of how Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane revolutionized baseball by using analytics and data to build a competitive team on a tight budget. The film is a compelling look at innovation and the power of unconventional thinking. Director: Bennett Miller Starring: Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, and Philip Seymour Hoffman Based on: The true story of the 2002 Oakland Athletics Themes: Innovation, risk-taking, and challenging tradition Awards: Nominated for six Oscars, including Best Picture Legacy: Sparked widespread interest in sports analytics 9. Friday Night Lights (2004) Based on the true story of a high school football team in Odessa, Texas, 'Friday Night Lights' captures the pressures and passions of small-town football. The film's raw emotion and realistic portrayal of the sport have made it a classic. Director: Peter Berg Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Lucas Black, and Garrett Hedlund Based on: H.G. Bissinger's book about the 1988 Permian Panthers Themes: Community, resilience, and the highs and lows of competition Legacy: Inspired a critically acclaimed TV series Memorable Line: 'Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose.' 10. The Blind Side (2009) 'The Blind Side' is the uplifting story of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager who becomes a football star with the help of a caring family. Sandra Bullock's Oscar-winning performance anchors this inspiring tale of hope and perseverance. Conclusion on Top 10 Sports Movies Sports movies aren't just about the final score—they're about the stories that stay with us. They remind us of what it means to fight for something, to believe in ourselves, and to trust in the power of teamwork. The films on this list have transcended the genre to become cultural touchstones, offering lessons in perseverance, courage, and hope. Whether it's the raw emotion of 'Rocky,' the heartwarming lessons of 'The Blind Side,' or the magical nostalgia of 'Field of Dreams,' these movies continue to inspire audiences across generations. They show us that, on and off the field, life's greatest victories often come when we least expect them. Related Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies. Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
Trump's National Guard Deployment in LA Is Revenge for Never Winning an Emmy, Stephen Colbert Says
Stephen Colbert has a theory about why President Trump sent in the National Guard to deal with ongoing protests against ICE in Los Angeles. 'Well, no surprise there,' Colbert said about Trump's decision to call in the armed forces. 'Trump is just getting revenge on Tinseltown. He never won an Emmy for 'The Apprentice,' and he was snubbed at the 1993 Oscars for his performance in 'Home Alone 2.'' Colbert then launched into his Trump impression, saying, 'They gave it to Pacino for 'Scent of a Woman.' A woman. I've smelled thousands of women, and I'm not even blind, OK?' During Tuesday night's episode of 'The Late Show,' the CBS host broke down what led to the multi-day protests in California. As many outlets have reported, the ongoing event was sparked by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, who reportedly told top ICE officials to 'just go out there and arrest illegal aliens' late last month. Miller told agents to raid Home Depot parking lots and 7-Eleven stores, according to the Wall Street Journal. This rise in the deportation of non-violent illegal immigrants led to protests in states that have large immigrant populations such as California. What started as peaceful protests became more intense, though Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass said the initial protests were only comprised of 100 people with 27 arrests. The late night host also called the president's standoff with protestors in L.A. 'Day 4 of Donald Trump's war on anyone who didn't vote for him.' Colbert then mocked a press briefing Trump gave in which he explained his decision to deploy 700 Marines into the city. 'That is low energy fascism,' Colbert said. You can watch the full 'Late Show' clip in the video above. The post Trump's National Guard Deployment in LA Is Revenge for Never Winning an Emmy, Stephen Colbert Says | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
