Tributes have been paid to a former Porthmadog town councillor who has been described as “one of Porthmadog’s greatest sons”.

Bryan Rees-Jones died on Sunday at the age of 79.

Mr Rees-Jones, who practised law in Porthmadog for most of his career, established the Rebecca Trust which in part managed the Cob before it was sold to the Welsh Government in 2003.

He was also a former member of Porthmadog Town Council and Cyngor Dosbarth Dwyfor and was heavily involved in the purchase of the Porthmadog Harbour by the latter as well as playing an active role in the building of Y Ganolfan Community Centre and establishing Clwb Chwaraeon Madog.

“Bryan Rees-Jones was undoubtedly one of Porthmadog’s greatest sons and his contribution to the town’s life over 50 years is incalculable,” said town council chairman, Cllr Gwilym Jones.

“We extend our sympathy to his wife, town councillor Bethan Ogwen Rees-Jones, and their sons, Bleddyn, Rhodri and Llewelyn and their families.”

Alwyn Gruffydd is a Porthmadog councillor and was a personal friend of Bryn.

He told Cambrian News about a man who he said was “quite the character”.

He said: “He was involved in everything, on a voluntary basis. He always helped people out.

“He had the ability to be knowledgeable and funny when sharing information, and the ability to talk the talk.

“Bryn was a golfer, a gardener and a keen Everton FC supporter. He grew everything from seeds in his garden and, as many people could tell you, he was an excellent cook. It frustrated him when he was unable to make his Christmas cake because of the illness.”

Cllr Gruffydd added: “He was a great character and a huge loss. I have heard people say that he might be the nicest person to ever live in Porthmadog.”