AROUND 1,100 people attended the funeral yesterday of a Brynmawr couple found dead in their burnt-out home. DEBBIE GREEN reports.

SNOW fell as mourners stood in silence outside a packed church in Brynmawr yesterday for the funeral of Sally-Ann and David Jones.

Around 750 people were inside the St Mary the Virgin Church in Brynmawr, while around 400 friends of the well-loved couple also huddled together outside the church.

Two coffins adorned with beautiful flowers - one completely in red and the other with red and white flowers - were carried into the building as people paid their last respects.

Twelve fire officers lined up in front of their engine to pay tribute to the couple who were found dead at their fire-hit home on December 16.

Reverend Linda Price gave the service, which began with the congregation singing The Old Rugged Cross.

She read a touching tribute to the couple, who had been together since they were 15 years old and had been married for 23 years.

She said: "Sally-Ann and David - known to all as Sal and Dai - are dearly loved children, they are a brother and a sister, aunt and uncle, they are friends. They are adored parents.

"But we see pink scarves today - a splash of colour on the black. Sal had told her sister Angela that when this day came she would like bright colours to be worn - but with 'not a dry eye in the house.' She has both of those wishes granted today."

And the minister added: "It has been a humbling experience for me to witness the love and selflessness of all involved, as they have found themselves upon this confusing journey of grief."

She spoke of the couple's respect and love from their colleagues at Cardinal Packaging, Rassau, where Mr Jones was a maintenance engineer, and at Lloyds TSB where Mrs Jones worked.

Ms Price said that both Mr and Mrs Jones enjoyed "an active, sporty life."

Mrs Jones enjoyed swimming, the gym and walking and Mr Jones enjoyed football, rugby and golf.

Ms Price spoke of the couple's pride in their sons, Jordan and Dorian, who has just graduated from university and is about to embark on a career as a secondary school sports co-ordinator.

She added: "I am certain that their proudest moment would be today - to see this fine young man, and his brave little brother, supported by all their nearest and dearest, paying this tribute of love to their parents."

The congregation sang O Lord My God and walked out to a recording of You'll Never Walk Alone.

The service was followed by a cremation at Gwent Crematorium in Croesyceiliog and refreshments were provided at Nantyglo RFC, the club which Mr Jones played for.

Donations received on the day were given to the Special Baby Care Unit at Nevill Hall Hospital, Abergavenny.