Tributes have been paid to a community leader and a “real gentleman” who died on Thursday following a period of poor health.

Councillor Charles Wyn Jones had represented Llanrug on Gwynedd Council since its formation in 1995, serving on various committes as well as being the authority’s chair between 2004-05.

Having worked for British Telecom for 30 years, he was previously the company’s manager and head of the planning department in north Wales, while also perviously serving on Arfon Borough Council and Llanrug Community Council.

After retirement, he was secretary of the Llanrug Silver Band for a time. He was one of the founders of the Gwynedd Branch of the Alzheimers Disease Society; and, after completing a theological course, became a lay preacher.

Due to his ill health, last month saw a full meeting of the council vote to excuse his continued non-attendance which under normal circumstances can terminate a councillor’s membership if unable to attend any meetings for six months.

Paying tribute,  Gwynedd Council’s current chairman said that Cllr Jones was respected by members across the chamber.

Cllr Edgar Wyn Owen said: “He served tirelessly and effectively for his area and for Wales for many years and he will be fondly remembered as a member of Arfon and Gwynedd councils and especially for his time as Chairman of Gwynedd Council. 

“He leaves after him a large void – one that will be very difficult to fill. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family.”

 The leader of the council’s Plaid Cymru group, of which Cllr Jones was a longstanding member, said that he had a “passion for Wales and its language”.

“It has been a great privilege to work with Charles over the years, and we, as colleagues and friends, extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends and the community of Llanrug in their loss,” said Cllr Dyfrig Siencyn.

“Charles had a passion for Wales, the Welsh language and his area.

“Charles was a true gentleman. He was wise, supportive of others and very thorough in his work.

“He spent many years representing Gwynedd on the Police Authority and then on the North Wales Police and Crime panel.

“He leaves a gaping hole in our midst, but we will cherish the memories.”

Arfon Senedd Member Siân Gwenllian added: “It was with great sadness that we hear of the loss of Councillor Charles Wyn Jones and today our thoughts are with his family and friends.

“He was a true friend to Arfon constituency and worked actively in his locality.

“We feel for his family and friends during this sad time and are grateful to know and work with Charles.”

Its not currently known when a by-election will be held for the now vacant Llanrug ward seat.