THE Venerable John Blackburn, vicar of Risca, told the Argus prayers would be said for the crash victims, their friends and families.

He said St Margaret's Church in Pontymister would be open all day today to allow shocked residents to express their grief.

The victims will also be remembered at services at St Catherine's and St Margaret's churches in Risca throughout the week.

He added: "Risca, because its community is so aware of itself, has been deeply shocked by this. There is a great sense of sympathy for the victims, their families and friends."

John Hayes, of Risca Rugby Club, told the Argus he had coached the victims when they played district rugby as youngsters. He said: "It's all very tragic."

Risca councillor Stan Jenkins said: "This is a massive tragedy, and when members of the same family are involved, it hits you all that much harder." Risca councillor Betty Toomer said: "You must feel for the family of these men and I fear the effect on the parents concerned."

Andy Coughlin, landlord of the Myrtle Grove pub in Risca, said: "They were lovely blokes and were absolutely brilliant. The community is in a state of shock - big time. A few people who came in today were just devastated by the news and couldn't speak when they heard about it."

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