RIP - Robert J Pugh (SHB 55-63)

Bob was born in Merthyr Tydfil in January 1944. He attended Christ College Brecon for eight years and truly cherished his school days. Known for his commanding physical presence and charismatic personality, Bob excelled at sports, representing Wales at schoolboy level in both rugby (tight head prop) and cricket. He played for the school’s 1st XV rugby team and 1st XI cricket team for three years from 1960/61 to 1962/63. After CCB, Bob played 1st XV rugby for Swansea RFC.

Bob was well regarded for his leadership skills and in the summer of 1963, ‘The Breconian’ reported, “mention must be made of RJ Pugh, captain for the second year. His work as an all-rounder has been invaluable but he has made an even greater contribution to our cricket by his discipline on the field, the enthusiasm he engenders, and the high standard he has set for the younger members of the side. Future captains could do worse than take Pugh as a model.”

Bob became Head of School in 1962 and held many positions of responsibility during his time at CCB, including Parade Sergeant for the Combined Cadet Force.

After his time at CCB, Bob went on to work for the BBC in a managerial role at Pebble Mill, BBC Northern Ireland, and Television Centre, London. In 1990, the International Management Association of America considered him to be one of the six world authorities in facilities management. He was also one of the first non-members to address the NATO civil emergency committee in Vancouver on industrial security in broadcasting.

In his later years, he provided business consultancy advice, specialising in telecommunications and broadcasting.

In January 2024 Bob celebrated his eightieth birthday by returning to Brecon with his family where he had a wonderful time reminiscing on his cherished school days at CCB.

Bob was widowed and leaves behind his sons, Mark (SHB, 80-85) and Paul, along with four grandchildren.