A community stood united on Sunday night with a candlelit vigil for one of its members who has been missing for over a week.
More than 300 people attended the vigil at Abertridwr Square for missing man Trevor Elias.
The 77-year-old was reported missing from his home in Abertridwr on Saturday April 7.
Police have been searching in and around the village for Mr Elias, who is known for his sense of humour and love of horse racing.
He is described as being approximately 6ft tall, very thin build, and has brown short hair. He wears glasses.
Community volunteers have also been out in force to track him down.
Social media sites Facebook and Twitter have been abuzz with appeals from the community for the missing pensioner.
Speaking to the assembled crowd, South Wales East AM and Abertridwr resident Lindsay Whittle said: “Thank you for this magnificent turnout here today – it’s a sign of solidarity.
“We hope and pray with all our hearts and minds that Trevor will be found safe and well.
“This is a magnificent community spirit and I’m very pleased, proud and honoured to be here.”
The candlelit vigil was organised through Facebook by 21-year-old Victoria Ford and 30-year-old Leah Nightingale, both originally from Abertridwr.
Miss Ford said the inspiration for the vigil came to her in a dream one night.
She said: “I dreamt about having this vigil. I have been so upset reading people’s Facebook statuses that I emailed Leah, and it went from there really.
Full-time mother Leah added: “We set up a Facebook page and we’re really pleased so many people made an effort.
“Community spirit is still alive and is strong.”
Messages of support were read out by local councillors John Roberts, John Taylor and Lyndon Binding and a prayer was also said.
Cub Scout leader Elizabeth Barclay also read a tribute to Mr Elias and led a rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone.
Anyone who sees Mr Elias or has information about his whereabouts is asked to contact Gwent Police on 101.