Hundreds of bikers pay tribute at Pontypool man's funeral

Michael Matthews, of High Street, Pontypool, died suddenly on March 25 much to the shock and sadness of friends and family.

Mr Matthews, known as “Miffa” among friends, was the president of the Pontypool chapter of the Valley Commandos Motorcycle Club, which has 14 chapters across the country.

The majority of those present at the funeral procession today were from the Valleys Commandos chapters. They were joined by hundreds of bikers from across the UK.

The procession began at the late Mr Matthews’ home.

One member of the Pontypool chapter estimated that between 400 and 500 bikers made the trip to pay their respects.

A friend, who did not wish to be named, said: “He had a superb, lovely character who was the life of the party. He’ll be sorely missed.”

Members of clubs from the West Country, Ireland and even as far as Spain were among the numbers as they rode with Mr Matthews’ casket down through Pontypool and down to Gwent Crematorium in Cwmbran.

On the sprawling lawns outside of the building, crowds of people wearing insignias of various colours on black clothing stood in respect.

Another Valley Commandos member said : “He was a popular character within the biking community in the UK and abroad.

“He acted as one of the main contacts for clubs in Spain, who are in attendance today which shows just how popular he was.”

Mr Matthews had close ties to Pontypool United RFC, with father Tom being the club’s chairman for 40 years before passing away in 2013.

A nearby neighbour of Mr Matthews said: “He was just a genuine bloke, he always had time to speak to you even if you didn’t really know him.

“Today has shown what these lads are all about. It’s a real brotherhood.”

Along with his wife Donna, Mr Matthews leaves behind his three children, seven step-children and eleven grandchildren.

The family’s obituary read: “He was left us all completely heartbroken and will be missed in our hearts forever.”