TRIBUTES have been paid to a lifetime supporter and volunteer of Aberdyfi RNLI.

Brian S Bates died on 19 January. He was 86.

Born in the West Midlands in 1934, his links to Wales went back to the war years as he spent his holidays in Bangor with a relative who was also a member of the local coastguard Team.

Cycling, fishing and the local sea scouts ensured a busy childhood, before training as a tool maker with a local engineering firm.

Brian completed his National Service with the RAF in South Wales before returning to Rushall in the West Midlands to work for local firms.

During this time, Brian visited Aberdyfi on his bike and enjoyed sailing and fishing in the Dyfi area.

However, a local girl called Nerys became a far more important incentive to visit.

Brian moved to Aberdyfi in 1957 and married Nerys shortly after.

As he settled into village life, Brian worked in the local garage and Nerys in a clothes shop.

They both supported the work of the RNLI; Brian joined as a volunteer crew member in late 1973 and Nerys as a volunteer on the fundraising guild.

Sadly, Brian lost Nerys to cancer in the late 1970s. He continued to involve himself in village life.

As a volunteer crew member and then Helm on Aberdyfi lifeboat, Brian’s local knowledge of the coastline was invaluable and he resolved many incidents and trained new crew.

After retiring from the crew, he continued to support the RNLI by using his years of experience supporting the station in management roles - both as volunteer launch authority and station chair.

As well as the RNLI, he also volunteered with Aberdyfi Coastguard Team by dedicating 25 years to the rescue service.

Brian was a keen supporter of every aspect of village life. He sat on the community council for over 30 years and was selected as chairman twice - a clear sign of his dedication and commitment to his local community.

Despite poor health in the past 10 years, Brian remained very independent and active.

He stepped back from voluntary work two years ago, but still was very happy to share his local knowledge if asked.

David Williams, chair of Aberdyfi RNLI said: “From all at Aberdyfi RNLI, we send our deepest sympathy to Brian’s family and friends. He will be very much missed by the whole community.

“Thank you, Brian, for your time and dedication to saving lives at sea.

“May you have a fair wind in your sails.”

Brian’s funeral will take place at 11am tomorrow (Tuesday, 2 February) at Aberdyfi Cemetery. The hearse will drive through the village prior to this, at approximately 10.30am.