The Upper Rhondda Pool League started when there were only eight teams, while currently there are 24 teams.

League chairman Kevin Moon, who has been a League official for 25 years, said: “The League involves teams playing from the top of the Rhondda to Penygraig and is made up of two divisions comprising of 12 teams in each division.”

Kevin said that the League started in stalwart valley pubs like the Tynewydd Hotel, known as The Bricks, and the chap who started it off was named John Pendry.

“Over the years there was a lot of interest in the League and it has got bigger and bigger.”

Kevin said to celebrate its 50th season a number of special events have been planned and what has made it extra special is that sponsors have come on board, which has been a real cash boost.

“We have been fortunate to have secured sponsors over the years but unfortunately due to circumstances some have not been able to continue with their support.”

Kevin said that one of the sponsors is Geoff Dyer, who is the owner of the Parc and Dare Sports and Social Club.

“Geoff has been a massive help to the League, especially on the trophies side, and we are very indebted to him.”

Meanwhile Geoff Dyer was instrumental in getting the Treforest-based Liquid Measures company to offer their support in sponsoring the League.

Kevin said: “The support given to us by The Parc and Dare Sports and Social Club and Liquid Measures has given us a much needed financial backing and we will be making every effort to show our appreciation.”

Kevin said the standard of pool playing has greatly improved over the last 15 years, with the League producing a few Welsh internationals.

“Gareth Rosser and Ceri Hobbs who played for the Lion Hotel in Treorchy, and Jonathan Samuel and Leighton Davis who plays for the Parc and Dare Social and Sports Club.”

Kevin said that there are still players in the League who were there 50 years ago.

“The oldest player is Clive Collins of the Ystrad-based Scoobys team while another long time player is David Holvey who plays for the Lion Hotel.

“Pool is played on Tuesday nights with the same format every season and the competition is always intense with two teams getting promoted and two relegated.”