Live tributes as rugby greats gather to celebrate the life of JPR Williams

Rugby stars past and present are gathering in Cardiff today to celebrate the life of one of Wales' greatest ever players. A thanksgiving service is taking place at Llandaff Cathedral on St David's Day to remember JPR Williams.

He died in January aged 74 after a short illness, and today's service will be a chance for hundreds to honour his life. Part of the golden era of Welsh rugby in the 1970s, Williams was capped 55 times for his country and represented the British & Irish Lions on eight occasions on two tours. Read about the life of JPR Williams here.

He captained Wales and played a significant part in a succession of Grand Slams and Triple Crowns in the heyday of Welsh rugby. The full-back was instantly recognisable, with a distinct running style, socks around his ankles and long sideburns to boot. Domestically he represented his place of birth Bridgend, as well London Welsh and Tondu, for whom he played right into his 50s. He eventually retired in 2003.

Away from rugby, he was an orthopaedic surgeon and was the son of two GPs and studied medicine at St Mary’s in Paddington following a spell at the prestigious Millfield School in Somerset.

While in London he represented London Welsh where he caught the attentions of the Wales national team and he was selected for summer tour of Argentina in 1968.

He was married to wife Scilla and lived in the Vale of Glamorgan. They had four children. He was appointed MBE in 1977 for services to rugby.

You can follow the service and tributes live here.