RESIDENTS were quick to praise Monmouth's community spirit after the collapse of an elderly man outside Shire Hall last Wednesday (19th November).

The 85-year-old man received treatment from a paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, and later from a team who arrived with an ambulance. The gentleman was taken to Nevill Hall Hospital, Abergavenny, where he was pronounced desceased upon arrival.

Members of the public quickly took the situation in hand with passers-by and shop workers assisting with both first-aid and traffic management.

Richard Harrhy, from The Coach House on Agincourt Square, said: "Having witnessed the sad occurrence in Agincourt Square I would like to make note of the attendance by local shop workers.

"On the event of the gentleman collapsing the staff of Andrew Bayliss (Zara and Richard) and Hannah from The Punch House immediately attended the scene.

"First aid was applied and traffic direction was instituted to allow the arrival of the emergency services which was posthaste, community spirit at its best.

"The response of local people with knowledge of CPR was also notable and all should be commended for their immediate reactions."

The sad event has been tainted with anger though, with flowers laid at the scene having been stolen.

Richard continued: "It was sad to note however, that flowers placed by Hannah were, within hours, removed from a pillar by a middle aged couple who then fled the scene."