Mary Poppins: Hollywood actress Glynis Johns buried in Burry Port, Wales

Mr Owen said he was contacted by Johns’ goddaughter in the United States, who wanted to find out where the actress’ father was buried.

“It was a bit of a surprise – I hadn’t realised that she had links with the town of Burry Port,” he said, adding that the wish of her will was that “her ashes be buried in the family grave”.

“It’s lovely. As a young boy, I remember her films from the black and white days,” said Mr Owen, 72.

“People have forgotten about her today, but she was quite a famous actress.

“Her father had a more direct link to Burry Port, where I’m told she used to come back for the odd few days, just to have a bit of respite from all the fame.”

Among those to attend the ceremony was Rachael Nicholson, whose grandmother was Johns’ cousin.

“They were both close in age. They really liked going together – when she was over – to dancing and ballet lessons in Pembrey,” Ms Nicholson said.

She said it was a “small” service.

“Small considering that she is one of the big stars of Hollywood, but it is clear that this is where she considered her roots, and that she wants to come back to her family.”