'One Mans Dream'
20 Sep 2009

The story of Billy Johns is one of great courage, of strength and of passion. Although Billy died in 1962 at the age of 33 his inspiration lives on.

Billy Johns health in the early years of his life deteriorated rapidly. The physical struggles diminished his energies to such an extent that by a very early age he was losing his mobility, and soon afterwards he found himself permanently confined to a wheelchair. For the remainder of his life he was to be virtually totally paralysed. Despite his disability he was an inspiration to others.

Billy had many friends, and Billy had a dream, he decided that rather than be led he would make, for him, the monumental effort to lead. His aims were clear - enjoyment for his friends, "his boys" through sporting and other activities and develop a friendship that knew no barriers. Billy's dream was of a club where he could gather around him hard working and committed officials who could nurture and foster its members, and together they could create something that was very "special."

Fifty years on there can be little doubt that Billy Johns' dream is very much alive. Billy's hopes and aspirations for the members of his club live on in the current players and officials and friends of the Mumbles Rangers of today. In spite of the fact that the majority of the clubs present members never had the privilege of knowing Billy Johns, all recognize the privilege of belonging to his club. The massive influence that he had upon all who came in contact with him all those years ago exists still to this day. It is an influence that all who have ever been associated with Mumbles Rangers will have experienced. If he had lived to witness the strength of the club today, his pride would have known no bounds.

In the 1961 New Years Honours list Billy Johns was awarded the British Empire Medal

Further history information is available as a download via Club Documents from the main menu