The family of a Brecon man who died following a reported violent disorder incident near Pontypool have paid tribute to him, describing him as a much-loved husband, father and grandfather.
Anthony ‘Tony’ Jones, 56, died in hospital as a result of injuries sustained during the incident in Pontnewynydd on Thursday, August 6.
Gwent Police has since launched a murder investigation and said multiple arrests have been made.
Mr Jones’s family said he would be “loved and missed more than words can ever express”.
They said: “Anthony was, first and foremost, a much-loved husband and devoted dad.
“To us, he wasn’t a name in a news story – he was our Anthony, and the hole he has left in our family is impossible to put into words.
“He was incredibly hardworking and always made sure his family was provided for.
“Sarah and the children were at the centre of his world, and he absolutely doted on them.
“He was immensely proud of his children and loved them beyond measure.”
Mr Jones was also a grandfather, known affectionately to his grandchildren as ‘Grumpy’.
His family said he “adored his grandchildren” and was “incredibly proud of them”.
They added: “Being their Grumpy was another very special part of the family life he loved so much.
“Anthony was always up for a laugh and loved nothing more than spending time with his family.
“We have so many happy memories of days out together, but some of our most treasured memories are the simplest ones – at home, music playing, laughing and dancing together during one of our many kitchen discos.
“Our lives have changed forever. Sarah has lost her husband and the children have lost their dad, and they are trying to comprehend a future they never imagined having to face.”
The family also appealed for privacy as they grieve.
“We understand there will be public interest surrounding Anthony’s death, but we ask people to remember that behind everything being written and spoken about is a grieving family,” they said.
“Whatever else may be said, nothing changes the husband, father and Grumpy Anthony was to his family or how deeply he was loved.
“We respectfully ask that Sarah, the children and Anthony’s wider family are given the privacy and compassion they need to grieve.
“Anthony will be loved and missed more than words can ever express.
“We will hold onto the laughter, the family days out, the kitchen discos and all the memories we were lucky enough to make together.”
Detective Superintendent Laura Bartley, the senior investigating officer, said the investigation was progressing “at pace”.
"Firstly, our thoughts remain with the family of the victim, who continue to be supported by specially trained officers,” she said.
“Our investigation is progressing at pace and multiple arrests have been made.
“Detectives are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding Thursday's incident, including the actions and movements of those involved before, during and after the disorder."
Police said they believe the violent disorder involved members of two rival Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs, the Vikings and the Hells Angels.
“Establishing the extent of involvement of those connected to the incident remains a key focus of the investigation,” Det Supt Bartley said.
“I would like to reassure the public that officers and staff are working around the clock to progress this investigation, identify everyone involved and bring those responsible before the courts.
“We are extremely grateful for the patience, support and co-operation shown by our communities while this work continues.”
Police said Hospital Road has now reopened after being closed to allow investigative work to take place.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Gwent Police quoting log reference 2600255536.
Information can be submitted through the force’s Major Incident Public Portal, by calling 101, through its website or by direct message on social media.
Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.






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