A NEW “dream” extension has been opened in Meirionnydd paying homage to a club legend.

Bryan ‘Yogi’ Davies was remembered in Bala last weekend as his rugby club opened a long-awaited extension, christened Ystafell Yogi in his memory.

Yogi died in 2013, six years after he was paralysed from the neck down following a horrific rugby injury in his retirement game for Bala Rugby Club.

The hooker spent two years in hospital after the incident, which happened in April 2007.

He spent 18 months in hospital before moving back home, but he returned to hospital for another 18 months after suffering a collapsed lung.

The newly built extension to Bala Rugby Club was officially opened on Saturday, 6 May, by Welsh Rugby Union president Dennis Gethin, also present were WRU north Wales representative Alwyn Jones and WRU director Martyn Davies.

Bala Rugby club choir performed prior to the unveiling, honouring Yogi’s request.

Bryan’s dream was for the club to have their own space on the premises where the young players could enjoy a meal after their games.

The junior section was started years ago by Mr Davies along with the late Gethin Jones.

A spokesperson for the club said: “Without Bryan, the junior section would probably not be where it is today.

“Following grant aid of £200,000 from The Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust, Welsh Rugby Union, Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd, Cist Gwynedd. The Welsh Assembly and a sum of £40,000 raised by the club, his dream was finally realised.

“The new extension consists of a large dining area and kitchen along with a viewing gallery and storage.

“The main contractor was local builder Elgan Pugh.

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