A GROUP of Rhydyfelin RFC rugby players have been commended for their bravery after aiding in the rescue of people during a fatal explosion at Treforest Industrial Estate in Rhondda Cynon Taf. The blast, which occurred on 13 December 2023, tragically claimed the life of 40-year-old Danielle Evans.
Despite the intensity of the fire that followed the explosion, there were no additional fatalities or serious injuries—a result partly credited to the swift actions of the eight rugby players who were on-site at the time. The players, who were in the estate’s gym when the incident occurred, took it upon themselves to help evacuate those nearby, ensuring they were out of harm’s way. Their courage has now been formally recognised with a bravery award from South Wales Police.
A split-second decision
Among the heroic group was Rhydyfelin RFC coach Kieron Phillips. Speaking to BBC Radio Wales Breakfast, Phillips recalled the chaotic and frightening scene. “Everyone was scared,” he said. Despite the fear, the group made a crucial decision to act. “We were all told to go to the back end of the car park, but if we had just sat there, God knows what would have happened,” he added. “We decided to get everyone evacuated and away from danger and not to wait for the fire service.”
Their quick thinking and determination to guide people to safety undoubtedly prevented further tragedy during the terrifying incident.
Recognition and reflection
The bravery of the Rhydyfelin RFC players was honoured at a ceremony held at Rhondda Heritage Park, where they received accolades for their life-saving actions. Reflecting on the aftermath of the explosion, Phillips described the experience as a “traumatic time.” He revealed that, in the weeks following the incident, the team met regularly over coffee to support one another through the emotional toll. “The thought of ‘what could have happened’ would go through my head,” Phillips admitted.
Receiving the police bravery award, he said, was “very rewarding” and provided a sense of closure for the group, acknowledging their courage during a perilous situation.
The tragic incident
The explosion at Rizla House on Treforest Industrial Estate sparked a fire that tore through the 60,000 sq ft complex, which housed 13 commercial units. Danielle Evans, whose body was later found amidst the wreckage, owned Celtic Food Laboratories, one of the businesses affected by the disaster. Her company, which specialised in microbial food testing, was established in 2009.
Mrs Evans, described by her family as a “whirlwind of a woman” and a “fiercely loyal and loving wife,” died from traumatic crush injuries caused by the explosion. Her family further remembered her as an “intelligent, caring, and beautiful soul.”
A heroic response
While the explosion resulted in a heartbreaking loss, the quick and selfless response of the Rhydyfelin RFC players helped avert an even greater tragedy. Their actions on that night have been rightfully recognised, not only as an extraordinary display of bravery but also as a testament to the power of community in the face of disaster.
