MOURNERS are gathering in Denbigh to celebrate the life of a man who united the community.

People have been gathering in The Hand in Lenten Pool before the funeral of Arthur 'Bootsie' Jones, aged 73, who died while in Crete.

He went missing on June 19 and in the following days and weeks the appeal to find him strengthened the community spirit in Denbigh and further afield. His body was found on August 4.

Members of the British Legion, soldiers and cadets are among the mourners in Denbigh this morning.

Before going into St Mary's Church, where the funeral will be held at 2pm, deputy mayor of Denbigh Raymond Bartley said: “I have known Arthur for many years as I was in school with him.

“During my time as mayor of Denbigh, Arthur was the marshal for the parades.

“He will be sadly missed. He was always out and about in town talking to people and being friendly. I would like to thank him for all he did for the mayors of Denbigh.

“It is a very sad day for Denbigh.”