TRIBUTES have been paid to a Bangor-born high street shop owner and "pillar of the community".

Martin Jones, owner of Vaughan Davies menswear on Wrexham Street in Mold, has sadly died, aged 71.

He has been described as a "true gentleman" and the "heart of Mold town centre". 

Beloved husband of Liz, dearly loved father of Matthew and Ruth and dear brother of Austin, Martin will be missed by all who knew him. 

North Wales Chronicle: Martin and family. Martin and family. (Image: Family photo)

His children paid a touching tribute to him. They said: "We have and always will say with the most pride imaginable that Martin Jones was our dad. He was the best dad, kind, funny and a gentleman in every way possible. He was the back bone of our household and provided us all with endless love and stability. 

"Him and our Mam (Liz) were totally devoted to each other, having met when they were teenagers, this year would’ve been their 50th year of marriage. 

"Dad was born in Bangor and raised in Felinheli with his Mum, originally from Taunton and Dad (local) who met during the war. And older brother Austin, whom he has remained very close to throughout adult life.

"A keen football fan, Bangor City and Tottenham, whose matches he recalled listening to on the radio with his brother growing up.

"A lover of music and a keen guitar player during his youth, playing in local bands such as “The Gaz”, “Sunset Major” then in later life “Special Brw” and most recently the “Llan band”."

Martin was a deeply religious man, known for his devotion to the local dioceses, and was heavily involved at his local church of St Meugans (near Ruthin).

He worked as a tailor from a young age, firstly in his youth in Caernarfon and continuing and developing his passion when he moved to Ruthin and started working for Vaughan Davies, before eventually taking over the business himself.

Ruth and Matthew added: "A businessman through and through, the shop became his passion and his life. He gave his heart and soul to providing a top quality service for his customers. He was extremely well liked and respected due to his professionalism and mild mannered nature.

"He became very fond of Mold and joined the business forum where he actively advocated for the town. 

"The last few months have been extremely difficult for us as a family, the loss we feel is monumental. He will always be remembered, always be loved, and his legacy will forever inspire us."

North Wales Chronicle:

Martin Davies pictured here when Vaughan Davies sponsored the Welsh rugby league team in 2017.

Staff members at Vaughan Davies paid the following collective tribute: "Martin has working at Vaughan Davies for many years, owning for the last 16. He was an extremely dedicated and hard working man, who we all have worked with for well over 20 years.

"Martin will be very sorely missed, not just by staff but by customers who have become good friends, as well by other businesses in the town."

Mold Town Council also paid tribute to Martin.

A spokesperson said: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of Martin Jones. Martin was a pillar of the community and a great advocate for our town. 

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"He will be greatly missed by all those that had the pleasure to know him. Our thoughts and condolences are with Martin’s family, friends and colleagues."

After news of his death was shared on social media by the town council, numerous people left messages of condolences. 

One said: "Very sad news, his thoughtfulness, mild manners and professionalism will be missed by all. Always ready to support but never seeking the limelight - a true gentleman. Condolences to family and colleagues."

Another added: "Been the heart of Mold town centre for so many years. Elegance, quality and great service. Such sad news."

Martin's funeral will be held on Tuesday, February 13 - with a service at St Meugans Church, Llanrhydd, Ruthin at 1.30pm, followed by a private committal. No flowers are requested. Donations in Martin's memory, if desired, are welcome to be made to The Macmillan Nurses Fund.