has ever been heard before at the place. There was a crowded assemblage, and we have no doubt that a handsome sum has been realized.

“Merthyr Express” 23 September 1871
Fochriw Popular Readings    On Monday evening, a very interesting entertainment of the above kind was given at the National School Room. Mr. B. Jones, Rhymney, was chairman. The proceedings commenced with an overture on the piano, ably rendered by Mr. Theophilus, after which, a variety of readings, recitations, songs, voacal and instrumental duets, followed in fast succession. It is pleasing to observe that out of the lengthy programme there was not one piece left out through the performer not being present. Among the parties who rendered great assistance were Mrs. Harris, Misses Jones, Meredith and Richards; Messrs. Phillips, Richards, Owen, D. James, T. Jones, and Clarke. Another meeting will be held on Monday week.

16 January 1909  Penny Readings    A "penny reading" was held at the Nazareth Chapel on Tuesday evening week. The chair was taken by the Rev. Isaac Roderick. The programme was contributed to by the following: a Chapter was recited by Miss Katie Jones Davies; duet, Miss Edith Parry and Miss Lily May Rees; recitation, Miss Elizabeth Evans; song, Miss Annie Maud Jones; recitation, Miss Katie Jones Davies; song, Miss Doris Davies; colloquy, Miss Edith Parry and Miss Elizabeth Gwen Jones. An excellent scriptural address was delivered by Rev. Isaac Roderick.

The following information regarding the sporting activities of the village has been obtained from Merthyr Express newspaper reports between 1870 to 1964.

Activities such as horse racing, cricket,  football, rugby, foot racing, bicycle racing, pigeon shooting, hockey,

Horse Racing

The one and only reference to horse racing is contained in the following report. The meeting would appear to have been an annual event but its location is unknown

2 July 1870   Rhymney, Deri and Vochriw Races and Picnic    This annual gathering came off on Monday last. There were a goodly number of persons present as the weather proved favourable. The racing commenced at 2.30 with a race for Galloways not exceeding 14 hands, followed by a pony race not exceeding twelve hands. In the hurdle race there was only one entrant, and in the pony race, 13 hands, three raced for a purse of three sovereigns. There followed a footrace of 200 yards, and then one of 300 yards. A variety of sports was provided for visitors, and the Blackwood Artillery Band was in attendance, and the lovers of dancing had an ample opportunity of indulging in it. Everything passed off tolerably well, but we are sorry to say that a great deal of drunkenness prevailed and several fights took place.

Cricket

It would appear that the cricket team was first established during May 1880 and continued until 1905. The club was reformed during 1910. It then continued in existence until 1937 from which date no more reports of cricketing activities were made.

Between 1923 and 1929 Fochriw CC were  four times champions of the Rhymney Valley District League and, in 1929, five of its members were chosen to play for the Rhymney Valley District League against Newport District League.  During this period a first and second team were in being.