More than a thousand bikers have gathered in south Wales to pay their respects to Anthony 'Tony' Jones on the day of his funeral. Mr Jones, from Brecon, died at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff the day after a violent incident near Pontypool on the evening of August 6. He was 56.
Funeral procession route
On Saturday, more than a thousand bikers travelled from the Pontardawe area via the A465 to Crickhowell, where Mr Jones' private funeral was held. Footage shows the bikers gathering at Abernant Retail Units before setting off shortly before 11am. After the funeral, the convoy travelled further east to a crematorium in the Newport area before a private wake was held in Brecon on Saturday afternoon.
Traffic Wales advised motorists that congestion was expected on key routes in south Wales, including the A40, A465, and A449.
Police response and tributes
Superintendent Esyr Jones of Gwent Police said: “The private funeral of Anthony ‘Tony’ Jones will be taking place in Crickhowell on Saturday. Our thoughts remain with his family and friends at this difficult time for them. We're aware that a significant number of people, who wish to pay their respects to Anthony 'Tony', will be travelling on the road network on Saturday both before and after the service. It is possible that this movement of people may cause an impact on the road network across south Wales but we’re working closely with partners, from policing and other agencies, to ensure that any disruption is kept to a minimum.”
Dyfed-Powys Police also confirmed that officers have been providing support alongside other police forces.
Family tribute
Following Mr Jones' death, his family paid tribute, saying: "Anthony was, first and foremost, a much-loved husband and devoted dad. To us, he wasn’t a name in a news story - he was our Anthony, and the hole he has left in our family is impossible to put into words.
"He was incredibly hardworking and always made sure his family was provided for. Sarah and the children were at the centre of his world, and he absolutely doted on them. He was immensely proud of his children and loved them beyond measure. Anthony was also a much-loved grandfather, affectionately known to his grandchildren as ‘Grumpy’. He adored his grandchildren and was incredibly proud of them.
"Being their Grumpy was another very special part of the family life he loved so much. Anthony was always up for a laugh and loved nothing more than spending time with his family. We have so many happy memories of days out together, but some of our most treasured memories are the simplest ones – at home, music playing, laughing and dancing together during one of our many kitchen discos."
The family added: "Our lives have changed forever. Sarah has lost her husband and the children have lost their dad, and they are trying to comprehend a future they never imagined having to face. Whatever else may be said, nothing changes the husband, father and Grumpy Anthony was to his family or how deeply he was loved. We respectfully ask that Sarah, the children and Anthony’s wider family are given the privacy and compassion they need to grieve. Anthony will be loved and missed more than words can ever express. We will hold onto the laughter, the family days out, the kitchen discos and all the memories we were lucky enough to make together."
