A former South Wales sports editor known for his encyclopaedic knowledge of rugby has died just six days before his 80th birthday.

John Billot started as an office junior at the Cardiff-based Western Mail in the 1940s and worked his way up to become sports editor in 1982, succeeding rugby legend JBG Thomas in the role.

He also wrote several books on Welsh rugby including in 1970 the ‘History of Welsh International Rugby’ which was the first full record of every game played by Wales since their opening match in 1881.

In 1970 he also became production editor of a new Welsh rugby annual and kept the position until the final edition three years ago.

John was known for injecting a touch of humour into his writing, attaching nicknames to players in reports, and his favourite player was Bleddyn Williams about whom he also wrote a book.

John retired in 1989 but continued reporting on rugby for several more years.

Welsh Rugby Union president Dennis Gethin told the Mail: “The Western Mail built its great rugby reputation on the back of John and JBG’s words.

“John’s contribution to documenting the history of Welsh rugby through his various publications provided an invaluable service to our game.”

John was married for over 50 years and is survived by his wife Sheila, three children and four grandchildren.