FORMER Cross Keys and Newport forward John Herrera has passed away at the age of 86.

Herrera was educated at Pontywaun Grammar School and represented Wales Boys’ Club before making his Keys debut at number eight against Blaenavon in 1948.

He played 121 games for the Pandy Park club, scoring 14 tries, before a dispute led to a move to Rodney Parade.

Herrera, the nephew of eight-times capped former Wales international Ron, moved into the second row at Newport and played in the 11-6 loss to the All Blacks in 1954.

He played 182 games for the Black and Ambers and represented Monmouthshire and the Crawshays before a short spell at Ebbw Vale and a return to Pandy Park to play for Cross Keys United.

Herrera was vice-chairman of Keys in 1985 and then chairman between 1986 and 1992.