A PENSIONER who died in a crash near Abergavenny was on his way back from a church barbecue on Saturday night.

David Marshall, 78, from Llangattock, died when his silver Ford Ka was involved in a crash with a silver VW Golf travelling in the same direction, between Raglan and Abergavenny at around 9.30pm.

His wife Mary, also in her 70s, is in Nevill Hall Hospital in a serious condition. The 44-year-old driver of the silver VW Golf, who also suffered serious injuries, was arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving and is currently in custody and has been released on bail.

The Marshalls were parishoners at St Mary's Priory Church in Abergavenny for several decades, said the vicar, Reverend Mark Soady.

"I knew David for about 10 years and he was a man with a deep faith," said Reverend Soady.

"He was a very devoted churchman and a very quiet, gentle man who had given great service to the country in the Royal Air Force.

"They were on their way back from a church barbecue in St Arvans near Chepstow on Saturday night and decided to take the scenic route home. It is a great loss for the church."

Mr Marshall was an altar man at the church which involved assisting the clergy with the Eucharist.

"David had a close connection with St Mary's for many years and was well-liked, and will therefore be sorely missed," said Reverend Soady.

"Mary is very much in our thoughts at the moment not only for her loss but because she is in hospital and is not in a good position."

The A40 was closed for approximately 10 hours while collision investigators worked at the scene.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the collision, in particular for the driver of a Ford Transit van or similar, which was believed to be travelling in the same direction when the collision occurred.

Anyone with information can contact Gwent Police on 101 and quote log number 608 20/7/13.