Ernie Lewis: Oldest WRU international referee dies, aged 91
Last updated on .From the section Welsh Rugby
Ernie Lewis, who was Wales' oldest surviving international rugby union referee, has died at the age of 91.
A former teacher, Lewis started refereeing in 1956 and took charge of the France v Australia international in Toulouse in December 1971.
He refereed many Barbarians games and was a regular touch judge in international matches.
He was running the line when Gareth Edwards scored "that try" for the Barbarians against New Zealand in 1973.
Recalling his international debut as a referee, Lewis said he "needed a police escort to get to the dressing room" after a controversial penalty helped Australia to a 13-11 win over France.
Before turning to refereeing, Lewis enjoyed a successful playing career with Ebbw Vale, Abertillery and Newport. He also played against Australia (1974) and New Zealand (1975) for a combined Abertillery and Cross Keys side, both at Abertillery Park.
After retiring as a referee, he went on to become a WRU referee assessor and president of the Welsh Society of Rugby Referees. His son is former WRU chief executive Steve Lewis.
His funeral will take place on Tuesday, 4 August at 1400 BST at the Gwent Crematorium in Cwmbran.
