A long-serving Machynlleth councillor and former mayor has passed away.

Eric Hughes, a lifelong Machynlleth resident who served the town as mayor on more than one occasion, sadly passed away suddenly at the end of last week.

Mr Hughes had served on the town council for more than 25 years with fellow councillor Michael Williams praising Mr Hughes’ dedication to the town and its residents.

Cllr Williams said: “I’ve known Eric all my life, and not just from being a councillor, but even before then.

“He was very much a family man and really cared for the people he represented on the council.

“He’ll be a sad loss. He served with great care for the people of the town and with great distinction for his position on the town council.

“He’ll be greatly missed.”

Current Machynlleth mayor Monica Atkins said Mr Hughes’ passing would be a loss to the town and residents in Machynlleth.

Mr Hughes last served as mayor in Machynlleth in 2010/11, but Cllr Williams said he had taken the role more than once and represented the town as mayor with honour.

During his time as a councillor, Mr Hughes had fought for protection for services for older people and had stood for re-election to the town council in January 2018 when two vacancies arose on the town council.