Tributes have been paid to PC Rhys Kelleher, who died from cancer on August 21.
The funeral of PC Kelleher, who was part of policing teams in Bargoed, Rhymney and Ystrad Mynach during his time with Gwent Police, was held on Friday, September 6.
Attending the funeral at St Dyfrig’s Church in Pontypridd, Gwent Police Chief Constable Pam Kelly said: “Today we’ve said goodbye to PC 1792 Rhys Kelleher following his brave fight against cancer.
“Rhys joined Gwent Police in October 2017 and through Rhys’ short time with us became an exemplar officer who touched the lives of many.
“He was a fantastic young man who was taken from us far too early. Rhys will be missed by all of his policing family.”
Chief Constable Kelly added: “On behalf of all officers and staff in Gwent Police, our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.
“Again, I’d like to thank his colleagues who gave him great support throughout his illness.”
Before joining the police, PC Kelleher, originally from Treharris, played football for Cardiff City’s academy.
In a statement, Cardiff City said: “A wide midfielder with attacking flair, Rhys joined the club’s academy in 2003, developing through the system and representing the club at Under 21 level.
“He would later take up studies at the University of South Wales where he represented their BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) team, before going into the coaching side of the game.
“A talented footballer with wit and an engaging personality, Rhys will be missed by his friends, teammates, coaches and former colleagues at Cardiff City Football Club. We would like to place on record our sincerest condolences to Rhys’ family at this terribly sad time.”