FRIENDS of a popular Gwent classic car enthusiast and rally driver who died tragically this month will pay a special tribute to him at his funeral.

As a sign of respect, fellow devotees from all over Britain are expected to drive their vintage and classic cars to the funeral of John Pascoe at the Gwent Crematorium, Croesyceiliog, Cwmbran, at 3.30pm tomorrow.

The 58-year-old from Solent Close, Pontllanfraith, was found hanging in his home on March 4 after suffering from depression.

His death is not being treated as suspicious.

One of his closest friends, Viv Davies, from Nantgarw, who worked with him for over 25 years at the Takiron UK Limited plastics factory in Bedwas, which closed in 2001, paid tribute to him.

"John was a lovely man and the kindest person you could possibly meet - everybody liked him.

"When Takiron closed after he'd lost his parents he'd had two of the three most important things in his life taken away from him."

Mr Pascoe was a hill climb and historic rally driver who began his motorsport career in 1962.

Mr Pascoe leaves a sister, Mary Pugh.