TWO hundred mourners paid tribute to a former head of Gwent CID at his funeral service yesterday.

Jack Harries, who died on January 4 aged 86 following a short illness, was described as a “real gentleman” and a man of “integrity” at a service held in Bethesda Baptist Church, Rogerstone.

During the service, led by Reverend Ruth Wood, mourners sang the hymns ‘Trust and Obey’ and ‘Love Divine’ (a hymn sung a Mr Harries wedding in 1947).

The Risca Male Voice Choir, performed an emotive rendition of ‘Sunset Poem’ (Eli Jenkins’ Prayer) in a moving tribute to Mr Harries, a keen chorister who sang with the choir and also Gwent Police Male Voice Choir.

Mr Harries’ daughter Alison Humphrey and his grandson David Humphrey gave readings. Mr Harries’ son, Phillip Harries recalled his father’s passion for rugby and holidays in Torquay.

He paid tribute to his long career with Gwent Police, having worked his way up from being a Valleys bobby to the head of Gwent CID.

Mr Harries grew up in Brynithel and joined Gwent Police as a PC in Abertillery in 1950. During his long career he was involved in major investigations across Gwent as a uniformed officer and detective.

Phillip Harries said of his father “they say you can’t trust a special like the old-time copper, well Jack was that old copper.”

He became the head of Gwent CID as Detective Chief Superintendent in 1979, retiring two years later.

"He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, but I will always remember him as our Dad", said Phillip Harries.

Rev Wood said he won the respect and affection of colleagues and was known as “the boss” long after his retirement.

"He was a real gentleman and a man of integrity," added Reverend Wood.

He is survived by his widow Dorothy Harries, his children Ms Humphrey, Phillip and David Harries, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

The service was followed by cremation at Gwent Crematorium, Cwmbran.