William John Townsend Collins

(Photo and text from "Who's Who In Newport" 1920.)

Collins, William John Townsend born Stratford-on-Avon, 23rd July, 1868, was educated locally, and, after leaving school, received his early journalistic training on the Herald. Played Rugby football for the town of his birth and in London, where he afterwards reported Rugby matches for the Evening News, the first London paper to produce a football edition. After experience in London and the Home Counties, Mr. Collins came to Newport in May, 1892, one week before the South Wales Argus was published, and is today the only original member of the literary staff. He contributed to the first number, and is today editor, appointed in October, 1917. His football articles, under the pen-name of "Dromio," have attracted widespread attention. As "The Member for the West Ward" he was the author of a series of contributions to the paper in prose and verse, which, in common with those which he wrote editorially, materially helped to formulate public opinion in regard to municipal matters. Some years ago he published a volume of "West Ward Rhymes" and "Pilgrims All." Has contributed short stories and poems to various magazines from time to time. His play, "As a Man Soweth," was produced at the Lyceum Theatre, Newport, and he has also written some one act plays. Married Kate, youngest daughter of Mr. Thomas Thomas, Cruglas, Pembrokeshire. Recreations: Reading, country walks. Residence: Little Haven, Oakfield road. Tel. 3366.