FAMILY and friends of four men who died in a tragic accident gathered for the unveiling of a memorial plaque last night.

Anthony Hill, 35, Martin Biggs, 34, Matthew Reardon, 23, and Leighton Pring, 22, were in a car which left the road and plunged into the River Usk just before Christmas.

The Newport men were all members of the pool team at the Carpenter's Arms, in Maindee, and had been playing pool in Caerleon before the tragedy.

Landlord of the Carpenter's Arms, Keith Lawrence, said the brass plaque, which would be visible from the pool room, was being put up as a mark of respect.

It was made by a local tradesman and paid for by donations from the community. More than £1,500 had also been raised for charities chosen by the families of the four friends.

*PICTURED: From left, Diane Pring,Tracey Biggs, Anita Hill and Janice Reardon comfort each other after the unveiling of the plaque.