Welsh rugby is getting a winning combination as the famous red dragon of The Scarlets teams up with the iconic red shield of The Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army in Llanelli has been invited to have a presence at Parc y Scarlets rugby ground starting with the United Rugby Championship game against the South African side, The Stormers, on March 22.

It was the idea of rugby fan Raymond Millet, who is a Scarlets season ticket holder and volunteers at The Salvation Army's charity shop on Murray Street.

Volunteer at The Salvation Army charity shop, Raymond Millet
Volunteer at The Salvation Army charity shop, Raymond Millet (Photo supplied)

Captain Karen Symonds, from the church and charity in Llanelli, says Raymond’s passion for rugby and his team has led to a great opportunity: “The rugby club and The Salvation Army are both such a big part of Llanelli and it is a great pleasure to be working together.”

“They have invited us to set up at the entrances to the ground and the family area, where we will have a table, banners, pamphlets and donation tins. We’re hoping to organise some children’s activities, and we can also provide advice and support for visitors to the ground if needed.”

The Scarlets Community Foundation Manager, Paul Fisher, says this link up is what the rugby club is all about:

“Giving support to our local charities and community organisations is a big part of our ethos at the Foundation. We are delighted to be able to partner with such a worthy cause as The Salvation Army. We look forward to welcoming them to Parc y Scarlets for our big game against the Stormers next month.”

Dave Healey (Scarlets Stadium Manager) with Karen Symonds and Antony Chappell of The Salvation Army in Llanelli and Scarlets Players Johnny Williams (Centre), Ryan Elias (Hooker), Sam Costelow (Fly Half), Gareth Davies (Scrum Half), Ioan Lloyd (Fly Half/ Fullback) and Josh Macleod (Flanker and Captain)
Dave Healey (Scarlets Stadium Manager) with Karen Symonds and Antony Chappell of The Salvation Army in Llanelli and Scarlets Players Johnny Williams (Centre), Ryan Elias (Hooker), Sam Costelow (Fly Half), Gareth Davies (Scrum Half), Ioan Lloyd (Fly Half/ Fullback) and Josh Macleod (Flanker and Captain) (Photo supplied)

Llanelli Salvation Army charity shop manager Antony Chappell said:

“Through sport I feel that The Salvation Army with the help of The Scarlets will be able to extend our Christian love, care, compassion and grace, whether it be through offering a sympathetic ear or giving a helping hand, to anyone who feels the need to call upon us during their hour of need for whatever reason.”

It’s hoped the collaboration will continue at more games this season and there are plans for some of The Scarlets players to visit The Salvation Army’s charity shop.