TRIBUTES have been paid to former Barry mayor and town councillor, Jeff Evans following his death, aged 74.

Barry Town Council flew its flag at half-mast, outside its Gladstone Road offices on Tuesday, April 10.

Mr Evans served on Barry Town Council from 2008 to 2017.

The Labour councillor for Court ward was elected as Barry’s mayor for 2014/15 by fellow Court ward councillor Bronwen Brooks who described him, at the ceremony, as someone who would bring “honesty and integrity” to the role and as “someone you can rely on at all times.”

Labour Barry Town Council leader, Cllr Bronwen Brooks said: “I have known Jeff for many years and I would like to pay tribute to the warm, honest, funny man who became a personal friend and supported me over the years in everything I have done, along with his wife Carol of over 40 years. We have shared many a campaign, walking the streets delivering leaflets and door knocking and always with a smile and good humour.

“Jeff took me under his wing when I first joined the Labour Party, showing me the ropes and encouraging me to stand for elected office even joining me as a Barry Town councillor in Court ward for a number of years. He became mayor of Barry in 2014, a role which I know he enjoyed immensely and represented Barry at many events, as well as fundraising for local causes throughout his mayoral year.

“Jeff was a true gentleman and will be sorely missed by his family, friends and colleagues. He was famous for his witty one liners and stories of his working life in the Coal Board and could always be counted on if you ever needed help or support.”

Vale AM Jane Hutt, who had asked Mr Evans to be her election agent, said: “I want to pay tribute to Jeff Evans former town councillor and mayor of Barry Town Council, chairman of the Vale of Glamorgan Labour Party and a much loved and respected friend.

“Thank you Jeff for your unstinting support and my deepest sympathies to Carol and family.”

Former Vale Labour MP candidate and colleague of Mr Evans, Camilla Beavan added: “Jeff was a kind and caring person and a committed campaigner.

“I was very grateful for his support and will miss him.

“My thoughts are with Carol and the family.”

Plaid opposition leader and current Barry mayoress, Cllr Shirley Hodges also joined those paying tribute.

“I’m very sad to hear Jeff has died, “ she said. “As Mayor of Barry he was always keen to support the council’s work in making Barry a Fair Trade town.

“My thoughts are with his friends and family at this sad time.”

Former Barry mayor and fellow town council Labour colleague, Dennis Harkus said: “Jeff was a loyal, enthusiastic, hard-working and long-standing member of the Labour Party.

“He was a reliable friend and we often spoke of his time working in the coal mining industry. “He will be sadly missed.”