Tributes to oldest Welsh Guard after death at 103

THE man who was the oldest surviving Welsh Guard has been described as a “marvellous man” by his former colleagues.

Eric Jones died on his 103rd birthday on December 10.

His funeral was held at St Tydfil’s Parish Church, in Merthyr Tydfil, on Thursday afternoon.

Mr Jones joined the Welsh Guards in 1934 and later went on to work for Merthyr Tydfil Police Force.

He was later recalled to the Guards at the outbreak of World War II.

In 1941, a year after marrying his wife, Ena, he was promoted to sergeant.

Colonel Tom Bonas, Regimental Adjutant of the Welsh Guards, said: “Eric Jones was remarkable man and a great Welsh Guardsman who will be missed by all in the regiment, whether serving or retired.

“A very special person who gave so much to so many, not least in the service of his country.

“As a regiment we were pleased to give Eric a proper send-off. He will be sorely missed and our thoughts are with his family.”

At the funeral on Thursday Rev Charlotte Rushton told the congregation that his family wanted to thank everyone who sent cards and gifts to Mr Jones for his birthday.

She said they were “deeply saddened Dad passed away before he could enjoy them”.

Rev Rushton also said the service – that was attended by retired Welsh guards – was “lovely”.

“They also played Last Post,” she added,

“It’s a very rare thing to see. It was a proper military funeral.”