Louis Augustus Phillips was killed in action on this day in 1916

Louis Augustus Phillips was born on 24 February 1878, in Newport, the son of Charles and Rose Phillips. He was educated at Monmouth Grammar School. After leaving school, he became an architect.

Louis, or Lou, as he was known began playing rugby at school, playing half back for the school, He later went on to play for Newport, appearing for them in 90 matches between 1897 and 1901.

He won four caps playing for Wales. In 1900, he was on the triple crown winning Welsh team. His rugby career was ended by a knee injury in the match against Scotland in 1901.

Louis was very much an ‘all rounder’ in sport, being a strong swimmer, international-standard water polo player, a good cricketer and excellent golfer. He was the amateur golf champion of Wales in 1907 and 1912 as well as being runner-up in the Irish championship in 1913.

On the outbreak of war, he joined the Public Schools Battalion, but refused a commission, becoming PS/5457, Sergeant, 20th Battalion (3rd Public Schools), Royal Fusiliers, 98th Brigade, 33rd Division. He went to France in November 1915.

Louis was killed in action while out on a wiring party on 14 March 1916, at Cambrin, and was buried in Cambrin Churchyard Extension.

PS/5457, Sergeant Louis Augustus Phillips, 20th Battalion (3rd Public Schools), Royal Fusiliers