Close, Gavin

DOB: 06/09/85

Height: 6ft in

Weight: 17st 3lbs

Honours: Wales Amateurs; Blues Amateurs

Biography: A local product from Rhydyfelin, Gavin Close played for his village youth team, progressing to senior level in the 2005 season. Word soon spread along the rugby grapevine of the giant winger's attacking prowess and try scoring ability, with honours gained for the Blues regional and Wales national amateur teams.

In the summer of 2007 Gavin, who works as a dry liner, trained with Pontypridd and was drafted into the club's senior squad for the ensuing season.