Thousands say farewell to Stuart Cable

22/06/2010

Aberdare came to a standstill as tributes were paid to the popular star

 Thousands of mourners lined the streets of Aberdare yesterday to pay their last respects to former Stereophonics drummer and radio presenter Stuart Cable.

Family and friends of Cable, 40, including his former band mates Kelly Jones and Richard Jones, were joined by countless fans of the drummer, who was found dead at his home on June 7.

Celebrities who paid their respects included Rhys Ifans, Rob Brydon and Dirty Sanchez star Matthew Pritchard.

Cable’s coffin, which was marked with the infamous lightning logo of his favourite band AC/DC, was led in a horse drawn procession through his hometown of Aberdare to St Elvan’s Church, where a private ceremony was held.

Gwyn Davies, a former neighbour and long-time friend, said: “I would like to say that he was my best friend but he was many people’s best friend.

“People are not here today because of his celebrity, they are here because they want to say goodbye to a nice, normal bloke.”

Kelly Jones was heard telling reporters after the service that “no one else could get a send-off like that,” adding “it’s hard to walk out crying when they are playing ‘Back In Black’,” in reference to his former bandmate’s favourite song.

The exact cause of Cable’s death has not yet been determined, but South Wales Police said there are not believed to be suspicious circumstances. His body was found by his mother, Mable, at his home in Llwydcoed.

Cable, who turned 40 last month, was said to have told his childhood friend Kelly Jones on his birthday that he “never thought he would live to see 40.”

He is survived by his nine-year-old son, Cian, his mother Mable, brother Paul and partner Rachel Jones.