Remembering the 1970’s ‘TAFFSCRUM’ by John and Caryl Rees

‘Taffscrum’ the brainchild of Caryl and John Rees, won a design award trophy in a Mid Wales Giftware Competition, after Caryl saw the competition advertised in ‘Studio Magazine’. They were among 13 runners up in an entry of 125 from all over the world – an outstanding achievement for a couple of amateurs in a field which was dominated by professionals. Caryl was already making rag dolls as gifts for children but went on with John, an avid rugby supporter, to design and create ‘Taffscrum’, which after the competition, went on show in exhibitions and trade fairs. Mr and Mrs Rees were thrilled that their cottage industry idea was taking shape.

‘Taffscrum’ had a calico body 14 inches high, with polyester shirt and shorts often made with the help of two Resolven ladies (in the colours of Wales and with the Prince of Wales feathers of course) and the different character faces designed/printed in Indian ink by John. They conformed to British Safety Standards, were completely washable and would market for under £5. At one time they were available in Craft Shops all over the UK and actually their biggest order was 75 caricature creations for the Japanese market. They also did caricatures for all four rugby nations and New Zealand.

The business proved very successful but due to work and other commitments, John and Caryl were unable to continue with the venture, but were understandably very proud of their achievement.

There are still some available today as Rare Welsh Rugby Memorabilia.

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Photographs kindly supplied by Mrs Caryl Rees

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