The community of Blackwood came together earlier today to mark the national minute’s silence in tribute to the 38 victims of the Tunisian beach shooting.
Among the 30 UK nationals shot dead by gunman Seifeddine Rezgui was 51-year-old Trudy Jones of Blackwood.
Members of the public joined with clergy, politicians, police officers and local dignitaries at Dragon Circle in Blackwood town centre for the noon silence.
Ms Jones was holidaying in the country with friends and been due to return home on Sunday to go back to work at the Highfields Nursing Home in Blackwood.
Her family have paid tribute to her, describing her as a person always willing to help others.
In tribute to Ms Jones, and the other 37 victims, Caerphilly Castle, along with other government buildings in Wales, flew its flags at half-mast earlier this week.
The flags were again flown at half-mast today, along with those on Caerphilly County Borough Council buildings, to coincide with the national minute’s silence.
At Blackwood town centre was Islwyn MP Chris Evans, who on Thursday called for more action from the UK Government to tackle terrorism and extremism.
In a Parliamentary debate he said: “First and foremost I want to say once again that my thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Trudy Jones who was murdered in this evil attack. Blackwood has been shaken by this but we will come together and support her loved ones through this difficult time.
“While the actions of this man must be condemned we cannot allow this to be viewed in isolation. No-one is born wanting to do evil. It is the brainwashers and demagogues of ISIL and their like who have pushed a shallow and Manichean concept of religion that made this attack happen. It is them we must defeat.”
Leading today’s prayers was Reverend Dr Gareth Edwards, from Blackwood Methodist Church.
Speaking to Caerphilly Observer he said: “Blackwood has always been a very supportive community and that it is on show today.”
Blackwood councillor Nigel Dix said the show of support would hopefully send a message to Ms Jones’ family that the community was thinking of them.
He said: “Today has been an opportunity for the community to get together to show its grief.
“The people of Blackwood are thinking of the family’s situation and have shown their support by coming here today.
Ms Jones’ body was flown home yesterday to RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire by the RAF.