Football: Like granddad, like grandson?

May 1 2008 Merthyr Express

THE GREAT grandson of Merthyr Tydfil legend Trevor Richards got the chance to follow in his footsteps at Penydarren Park.

Seven-year-old Joe Graves, who lives in Feltham, Middlesex, was invited to train with the Martyrs while visiting his great grandmother Gwyneth in Abercanaid.

More than 50 years ago Gwyneth’s late husband Trevor won the Welsh League with the club and also played for Cardiff City and Wolves in and around the Second World War.

Chelsea fan Joe, known by family as ‘Joe Cole’, made the trip down to Merthyr with family including mum Sarah and grandad Jeff, originally from Trebanog.

And the youngster could emulate his great grandad. He currently plays for an Under-eights team in Middlesex and has had interest shown by the team he supports.

“The club were great to Joe,” said mum Sarah.

“He had a fantastic time training with the players and they gave him lots of souvenirs.”