A COMMUNITY turned out in force to bid a final farewell to a true character and a tireless charity fundraiser.
Around 100 people attended the funeral of former Chronicle community news correspondent Cyril Rowlands, who was 71, at St Peter’s church in Llanbedrgoch.
Dewi Jones, who worked with Cyril as editor of district newspaper yr Arwydd, said: “Today we remember Cyril, one of the characters of Bro Goronwy; a man who has left Bro Goronwy a better place.
“A man who was keen for all people, of whatever colour, creed and origin to be drawn closer together.”
Susan Gathercole, who was the Chronicle’s community news reporter for 11 years, had fond memories of working with Cyril.
She said: “Cyril used to bring in news from all over Anglesey every week - he was fantastic.
“He was a very warm man who loved his community.”
The former Llangefni County School pupil raised thousands of pounds for good causes, and received a medal for his efforts from the Royal British Legion.
Mr Jones said: “If Cyril undertook any task, be it the work of the church, the council, the Arwydd or Marian-glas Eisteddfod as publicity secretary, you knew he would always keep his word.
“All this so that people could be drawn together.”
Anglesey councillor Vaughan Hughes, of Llanbedrgoch ward, added: “He was one of the great characters of the Benllech and Llanbedrgoch area, who knew everyone, was a tireless fundraiser for all kinds of good causes in the neighbourhood.
“He will be greatly missed.”
One of Cyril’s causes was Moelfre RNLI Lifeboat Station, and operations manager Rod Pace said: "We're very sad to hear of Cyril's passing.
“The thoughts of everybody at Moelfre Lifeboat Station are with Cyril's family, and we're very grateful for all his hard work and support over the years."
Canon Michael Ottram, who led the service, told mourners that while Cyril had no known surviving family, “you were his relatives,.”
He added: “I think you would all agree that every community should have a Cyril in it.”
Cyril was a resident at St Tysilio residential home in Llanfairpwll.
He was laid to rest at Soar Cemetery in Rhosfawr.