MORE than 60 people turned out for the unveiling of a headstone for the late legendary toastmaster, Harry Poloway.

Mr Poloway, who lived in Newport and died in May 2016, was known for hosting ceremonies for the Dalai Lama and Nelson Mandela, while also acting as master of ceremonies at many weddings and charity events in South Wales.

He was also awarded the MBE in 2005 and had been the official toastmaster for most of the British royal family.

Yesterday, crowds of people - including Rabbi Michoel Rose, Paul Flynn, Matthew Evans and David Fouweather - poured to the Jewish Cemetery at St Woolos Cemetery to see Mr Poloway’s headstone.

Speaking to a packed cemetery, Rabbi Michoel Rose described the late Mr Poloway as “witty and charming”.

He said: “We are here today to celebrate the life of a true son of Newport, Harry Poloway.

“He loved being around people and was someone who was proud of his Jewish faith.”

Ron Black, 73, who lives in Newport, had known Mr Poloway since he was a young child.

“I grew up Jewish and I met Harry at the synagogue many years ago,” said Mr Black.

“It is wonderful to see so many people come here for Harry.

“The headstone is wonderful and it’s a lovely tribute to a wonderful man.”

Tobias Cohen, who is from Newport but now lives in London, said he would miss Mr Poloway “a great deal”.

“Harry was such a down-to-earth man,” said Mr Cohen. “He always provided thoughtful advice and was a lovely, lovely man.

“He was the sort of guy you would never tire of being round and to see so many people turn out for this event proves that.

“I’m proud that I’ve travelled from London to see the unveiling of a headstone for a proud Jewish man.

“He’s still missed every day.”

Helen Fisher, 77, who was a friend of Mr Poloway’s, said she was “moved” by the large turnout.

She said: “He was 100 when he died just under a year ago but we all miss him terribly.

“There wasn’t a bad bone in his body.

“I know for a fact that Harry would be smiling at seeing this large turnout for him.”