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Welsh hero Gravell remembered

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Thousands of sports fans will say a very public farewell to rugby star Ray Gravell on Thursday.

Thousands of sports fans will say a very public farewell to rugby star Ray Gravell on Thursday.

Stradey Park, home to the Llanelli Scarlets, is playing host to its most famous former son for the final time.

The stadium where his legend was born is the fitting venue for one last memorable appearance – his final bow.

Ray Gravell, 56, known affectionately as Grav, died at the end of last month while in Spain on holiday with his family.

Tributes have poured in for the celebrated former Scarlets, Wales and British Lions player since his death.

A sporting legend for one generation, he had become known to the next for his sports commentary for BBC Wales and for his acting.

The open-to-all service at Stradey Park with no invitations or guest list is in keeping with the wishes of his family.

The service will be held on the field in front of the old South Stand.

Delme Thomas, Derek Quinnell, Gareth Jenkins, Simon Easterby, Stephen Jones and Dwayne Peel will all be coffin bearers.

The stadium gates will open to the public from 11am. Officials have asked anyone planning to attend to be in place by 12.30pm.

The cortege with the coffin is scheduled to leave the family home in Mynydd-y-Garreg at 12.15pm and reach the stadium at 12.45pm.

An hour-long memorial will include a tribute from Welsh Assembly First Minister Rhodri Morgan and music from Llanelli Male Choir and the Burry Port Town Band.