Cyril celebrates 100th birthday

We joined partners County in the Community to bring one resident a very special gift to mark his 100th birthday. (turned 100 on February 13)
Cyril Taylor from Cwmbran has been a Melin resident for 26 years and a Newport County fan since he was 11.
Melin’s Chief Executive Paula Kennedy and former County players Norman Parcelle and John Relish dropped in on Mr Taylor to surprise him with tickets to be their guest at Newport County’s match against Bradford City on February 22nd.
Mr Taylor was thrilled to receive the tickets and the signed football. He said “That has made my day!”
Cyril went to his first match at Somerton Park in 1932 with his friend. Former player and manager John Relish asked him ‘where did you used to sit? Was it by the goals in the stands? ‘
Cyril answered; “Oh we used to sit on the top of the lavatories to watch.”
One of six children Cyril was born just after WW1 ended and went to school in Pontymoile. He married in 1944 and has one daughter.
Mr Taylor continues to live independently and walks up to the nearby Melin extra care scheme Ty George Lansbury once a week for a game of Bingo. He walks over to Pontnewydd to his daughter’s house too every Sunday for lunch.
When asked for his secret to longevity he said; “I’ve always walked a lot and I’m not a prude, but I’ve never smoked or drank a lot.”
“But” he added “It’s probably because I’m a County supporter.”
Melin’s Chief Executive Paula Kennedy said: “It was an absolute pleasure to meet Mr Taylor. He is an inspirational man. I’m so pleased that our fantastic relationship with County in the Community has once again brought benefits to people in our community.”

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