MONMOUTH AM Nick Ramsay and Abergavenny’s police chief Inspector Huw Jones were among dozens of mourners at the funeral of well known Abergavenny character Henry Parry.

Also at the funeral which took place at Gwent Crematorium, were Mr Parry’s two sisters Lorna and Rose and other members of his family.

Speaking about Mr Parry, who lived on the streets of Abergavenny for almost 20 years, Rev’d John Hughes said that much of his story was shrouded in mystery and added that “this is how it should remain.”

Rev’d Hughes, who paid tribute to the many people who offered help and support to Mr Parry said that in his youth he had been a skilled stonemason working on the historic castles at Skenfrith and Caerphilly and had been presented with the prestigious Silver Trowel award from Pontypool College.

Speaking after the funeral Inspector Jones said, “It was a good turn-out for Henry who was well known and well liked around the town.”

He revealed that he had spoken to members of Henry’s family who expressed their gratitude for the support both the police and the rest of the community had given Henry over the years.

Insp Jones praised the tribute paid to Henry at the crematorium service by the vicar.

“It was a fitting comment on a man who was part and parcel of Abergavenny for 20 years,” he said after the funeral.