TRIBUTES have been paid to a Pen Llyn man who died in a jet ski accident in Ghana.

Iwan Gwyn, 49, a familiar face at Pwllheli Rugby Club who had also played for Nefyn Footbal Club, died on Thursday, 30 December following a jet ski accident on an island near Accra, the capital of Ghana, where he had gone with his family to celebrate Christmas.

Originally from Llanaelhaearn, Iwan and had lived and worked in Ghana for over nine years.

Iwan’s brother, Sion Ynyr, said: “Normally the whole family would be home in North Wales to celebrate Christmas with the rest of the family but had decided to remain in Ghana due to Covid.”

Iwan leaves behind his wife Annie and three children, Ben, Megan and Laura.

The 49-year-old was a Project Director for Barbisotti and Italian family construction, where he had earned huge respect, as he was responsible for projects such as hospitals, government buildings and currently in construction of a multi faith cathedral.

Originally from Llanaelhaearn near Pwllheli, he had worked in Dublin before he moved to Ghana and met his wife to be Annie and had 2 amazing children Megan and Laura

Sion added: “Had very strong connections with Pwllheli Rugby Club where he’d played and supported since he was a child. He also played for Nefyn football club. He was an avid squash player.

“Liverpool Football Club was in his blood.

“The family would like to thank everyone for their support as it has been very comforting for the whole family.

“He will be deeply missed by everyone.”

The family are currently in the process of bringing Iwan home.

Pwllheli Rugby Club has also paid tribute to its former player, saying: “Tragic news reached the club about the sad loss of ex-player and supporter of the club, Iwan Gwyn.

“Iwan died in a Jet Ski accident far away in Africa where he lived and worked.

“I can only send my sincere condolences from my family and all involved at the club. “Another example of how unfair life is. Cysga’n dawel Iwan. RIP Iwan.”