MOVING tributes were paid to Newport dad and Argus worker Ben Caplan at his funeral today.

More than 200 people were at the Gwent Crematorium in Cwmbran to celebrate the life of Mr Caplan whose body was recovered from the River Usk at Caerleon, nine weeks after he went missing following a night out.

Family, friends and colleagues wore tartan to mark Mr Caplan’s Scottish roots and listened to heartfelt tributes read out on behalf of his nephew, mother-in-law, colleagues and wife Danielle, who described her husband as a “generous and lovely man”.

Mrs Caplan’s tribute also included memories of when Mr Caplan proposed and his relationship with his sons.

The former circulation manager at the South Wales Argus met his wife 12 years ago and was father to eight-month-old son Jude, and stepfather to his wife’s son Evan, aged five.

Argus editor Kevin Ward paid his respects to Mr Caplan on behalf of the Argus, reminiscing on Mr Caplan’s career with the paper and his sometimes “unusual” fashion choices.

“One of the sad duties of a newspaper is to report tragedies,” he said.

“Some of us have done so hundreds of times, but it is never an easy task.

“We have lost a dear friend and colleague and it hurts like hell. Sleep tight, mate. We all miss you.”

During the service a poem was read which reflected on Mr Caplan's positive outlook on life: “Feel no guilt in laughter, he’d know how much you care. Feel no sorrow in a smile he is not here to share.”

Guests were asked to donate to Severn Area Rescue (SARA) to support its work in providing a search and rescue service across large parts of the rivers Severn and Wye. Leaving the chapel, George Harrison's Here Comes The Sun was played in recognition of Mr Caplan’s love of the Beatles.

A dove was also released outside after the service.

Refreshments were then held at Rodney Parade. Mr Caplan was reported missing to police on Sunday, December 8, by Mrs Caplan after he failed to come home from a night out celebrating his 30th birthday with friends.

The search attracted huge support from the Newport community. Mr Caplan’s body was recovered on January 30.