EMOTIONAL tributes have been paid to a "giant giant" and ex-cadet who died "peacefully" in hospital.

Adult Under Officer Liam Ashton-Hughes was the detachment commander at Barmouth Detachment and also the Minden Company First Aid Officer. He had been an Army Cadet Force (ACF) volunteer for more than 10 years.

Clwyd and Gwynedd Army Cadet Force posted on Facebook on Monday, March 15: "When his health allowed, Liam had been an active instructor with Barmouth Detachment, Minden Company, and within Clwyd and Gwynedd ACF.

"He had attended many training weekends and annual camps.

"In December last year Liam was awarded the very first Commandants Coin for Excellence to be awarded, in recognition of his considerable efforts, particularly during the Covid 19 pandemic restrictions. Despite his personal health issues over recent years, including a lung transplant, Liam has steadfastly continued engaging with the detachment cadets in the virtual world.

"Liam was one of the first detachment commanders to utilise online training where activities included 'Quarantine Questions' and a range of instruction sessions delivered from his bedroom at home and even from his hospital room.

"Liam, who was keen on military history also sought out and shared Army and Regimental history videos, particularly from the Royal Welsh.

"Everyone in the Army Cadet Family sends their deepest sympathy and condolences to Liam’s family and friends at this very sad time."

Liam died at Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor.

Commandant Colonel Martin L Craven said: “I was greatly saddened to receive the news that Liam Ashton-Hughes had passed away in hospital. He will be dearly missed not just by Barmouth Detachment but by all in Clwyd and Gwynedd ACF."

Minden Company Commander Major Wendy Thomas said: “It was with a very heavy heart that I awoke today [March 15] in the knowledge that we had lost a fellow Adult Instructor, a friend, a lovely young man.

"Liam Ashton-Hughes was a valued piece in the Minden jigsaw and his passing yesterday evening will leave a far-reaching sadness for many.

"Bless you Liam. Rest peacefully, young man."

Responders Harlech, who work alongside ambulance service personnel to reach patients suffering serious life threatening conditions, paid tribute to Liam on Facebook.

"Today (March 15) the team wake up to the sad news that our friend and colleague Liam Ashton-Hughes passed away peacefully at Ysbyty Gwynedd Bangor.

"Liam was a gentle giant and always put himself forward to any activity we carried out.

"Liam went as far as gaining entry to Swansea university as a paramedic student but could not for fill his dream due to ill health.

"We will miss his smile his stature but he will never ever be forgotten.

"Sleep tight our friend and condolences to the family from all responders past and present @ Harlech first responders xx."