TRIBUTES have been paid to a Porthmadog businessman who died suddenly of a heart attack whilst on holiday in America.

Huw Williams, 57, was on three-week holiday in Texas with his partner Tracey Hamer, when he was taken into hospital after suffering a heart attack. He died two days later on Wednesday, 4 November.

Mr Williams had worked in Porthmadog for over 30 years, first at the Barclays Bank on the high street. He spent the last 20 years running his own business, Huw Williams Antiques, on Madoc Street.

The grandfather of eight, who lived with his partner in Llan Ffestiniog, had extensive knowledge of antique weaponry and had supplied many museums, film companies and collectors with examples of arms and militaria. Many of the items he owned had been used to illustrate magazine articles and reference books.

Mr Williams leaves behind three children, Tina Morse, Andrew Williams and Sion Williams and two step-children, Ben Hamer and Lowri Hamer.

His daughter, Tina, described her father as someone who will be remembered as great company, a keen biker, and passionate about his work.

She added: “He was a great man and really enjoyed a beer! He was a keen biker, was a member of the local shoot, and met with friends every week at the Oakley Arms in Maentwrog and I’m sure everyone will remember him as a good guy and great company.

“My father also really enjoyed what he did – he had a wealth of knowledge in antique weaponry and was one of the leading experts in this field. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.”