THE bereaved family of Eifion Gwynne have said their “world was shattered” after learning of his death.

An outpouring of shock and grief followed the tragic death of the hugely popular 41-year-old father-of-three who died after being struck by a car in Spain, where he was attending the funeral of a family friend.

And following Eifion’s funeral today (Saturday), which was attended by well over a thousand people, many of whom watched the service on a large screen outside Capel y Morfa, Portland Street, Eifion’s family paid tribute to a “caring giant” whose “smile lit up the room”.

In a joint statement, Eifion’s family, including his mum Anne, wife Nia, and children Mabli, Modlen and Idris, said: “Legend, caring giant, loyal friend, astute rugby player – just some of the words used to describe Eifion Gwynne during the past few weeks.

“But to us, he was also quite simply a loving son to Anne and the late Dai; a faithful brother to Megan, Dewi, Eirlys, Bethan, Ieuan, Rhiain, Mair, Alun and Nerys and their families; a kind uncle; a cherished son-in-law and brother-in-law; a loyal friend; a devoted husband to Nia, and a doting father to Mabli, Modlen and Idris.

“Our world was shattered when we were informed of Eifion’s untimely death, but friends, colleagues and family have given us strength and courage to face this difficult period in our lives.

“The tributes have been pouring in from all corners of the world, photos have brought smiles to our faces, and all the kind words has reminded us how well respected Eifion was, and shown us how many lives he truly touched.

“Eifion lived life to the full, his vitality and kind nature inspired many. His smile lit up the room, his caring nature would see him help anyone, and he treated everyone with the same respect.

“That is the reason celebrating all he achieved during his lifetime gives us so much comfort.

“Our heartfelt thanks goes to the local community and beyond for their kindness and support, we have been truly touched.

“We are truly grateful to the rugby community, in particular Aberystwyth Rugby Club and Llanymddyfri Rugby Club, who have shown us kindness, consideration and immeasurable support that we could never have imagined.

“We also, as a family, wish to thank Gwyn and Janet Evans, Funeral Directors, most sincerely, for guiding and supporting us, with so much care, through this difficult time in our lives.

“And lastly a huge show of gratitude goes to all our friends, acquaintances and family for the strength, kindness and support shown to us during these past few weeks. Diolch o waelod calon.”

A memorial fund has been set up in Eifion’s name, ‘Cronfa Goffa Eifion Gwynne Memorial Fund.’ Donations are being received, on behalf of the family, by Gwyn a Janet Evans, Plas Brongenau, Llandre, Aberystwyth SY24 5BS (01970 820013).

Donations are also being received online, by visiting: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/cronfaeifion.