Nigel Jones' family turn on the Xmas Lights

Cllr Colin Bithell, chairman of the Penyffordd Community Council, said it was absolutely perfect to have Mr Jones’ family light up one of the new trees.

“They were Nigel’s idea,” he said. “The family were overjoyed to do it.”

Penyffordd will have three trees with the main one under the village’s Millennium clock.

Cllr Bithell said Mr Jones had suggested a tree would act as a central focal point for people to gather around and sing carols.

He said his friend had also been keen to help the council find ways of saving money.

“The lights were costing £4,000 each year, which was a lot for a small community,” added Cllr Bithell. “We thought it was a wonderful idea.

“We’re going to have three trees with this one in the middle of the village, under the clock – somewhere all the villagers can meet.”

Mr Jones’ daughters, Anna and Claire, son Rhys and grandson Cayo Jones attended the ceremony to switch on the lights.

Full story in The Leader