THE close-knit former mining community of Risca is in mourning as the news of the weekend's tragic accident sinks in.

The tragedy is the only topic of conversation in the town, where the four men were well known and popular members of the community.

Lesley Hill, landlady of the Rolling Mill pub, said: "They were all a nice bunch of lads who would come in here regularly for a drink. They were gregarious, fun- loving and just a good bunch of lads, really.

"They always enjoyed a laugh and a joke. You don't expect something terrible like this to happen. It was awful here on Sunday afternoon when we heard the news.

"Some of the lads who came in were crying, they were just so upset." Another landlord, who did not want to be named, said he was a good friend of the four men.

"They were just happy-go-lucky lads," he said.

"I knew them all well, they were regulars and friends. They were just great lads. It's a tragedy. People are in a state of shock and disbelief."

The four were keen sportsmen who would often play five-a-side football and attend the gym at Risca leisure centre.

Geraint was a particularly keen footballer, who played for Risca United. Warren Harding played rugby for Risca RFC's second team last year. Dave Smith, general manager of Risca leisure centre, said: "They were nice lads and this is a great loss to the community.

"They were great guys. They trained hard and played well and enjoyed their sport.

"We are all devastated. The village is so close and this is tragic for Risca. It is a tremendous loss."