FRIENDS and neighbours paid tribute to the young man who died after a motorcycle crash near Pontypool.

Adam Jones, 21, from Trevethin, was described as a "nice lad" who was popular in the community.

The former Trevethin community school pupil - known as "Cranky" to his friends - was confirmed dead at the scene of the accident which happened at about 7pm on Tuesday on the A4043 near Riverside.

Police said no other vehicle was involved in the incident. They could not confirm if Mr Jones was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

A police spokeswoman said: "Several witnesses have come forward and provided us with valuable information about the incident. Any use of a helmet will be looked at as part of the investigation."

Yesterday three bunches of flowers were tied to a signpost near a roundabout at the scene of the crash.

Cards were attached bearing the simple message "rest in peace". Friend and former neighbour Darren Jackson, 32, of The Links, paid his respects to Mr Jones.

"He was a good boy, well liked and outgoing," said Mr Jackson. It is understood Mr Jones lived with his father in The Links until a few months ago.

Another former neighbour who asked not to be named said Mr Jones was a "very nice lad" and that his death was "shocking".

Trevethin councillor Lewis Jones added: "It is a tragedy that someone so young has lost their life in this way. The thoughts of all the people of Trevethin are with the family at this sad time."