Tributes have poured in for a former Aberystwyth University vice-chancellor who has died aged 72.

Professor Noel Lloyd, who led the university from 2004 until his retirement in 2011, was described by the university as a “deeply principled person”, who “will be remembered for his intellect, compassion and tireless work ethic”.

Mr Lloyd, an academic mathematician who had worked in Aberystwyth since 1974 after an early career in Cambridge, leaves behind his wife Dilys, two children and two grandchildren.

Prof Elizabeth Treasure, vice-chancellor of Aberystwyth University, said: “It is with great sadness that we have learnt of the death of our former Vice-Chancellor Professor Noel Lloyd.

“A deeply principled person, he will be remembered for his intellect, compassion and tireless work ethic.

“We extend our deepest condolences to his wife Dilys and family.”

The university’s deputy chancellor, Gwerfyl Pierce Jones, said Mr Lloyd’s death was a "huge loss".

“I saw at first hand the respect he had, not only on the basis of his scholarship but also his charming personality, natural fairness and sincerity,” she said.

Former Ceredigion MP Mark Williams said Prof Lloyd was a “dear friend” with whom he shared “happy memories” of train trips to London.

“His modesty masked a huge contribution to public life, and especially at Aberystwyth University, which he always championed,” Mr Williams added.

Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth said the news was “very sad”, describing Prof Lloyd as “a man of great academic talent”.

“He was a distinguished vice-chancellor of Aberystwyth University,” he said.

“He was charming, warm, principled with total integrity.

“I am proud and privileged to have known him.”

Ceredigion AM Elin Jones said that Prof Lloyd was “gentle, conscientious and helpful man” who “will be missed”.

John Williams, Emeritus Professor of Law described Prof Lloyd as “a generous and compassionate man,” who was a “great friend and colleague”.

“Working with him was a pleasure and privilege,” he said.

“His contribution to Aberystwyth University, Higher Education, and his discipline was immense.”

Prof Lloyd graduated in mathematics from Cambridge University, where he completed his doctorate and became a research fellow.

During his decades in Aberystwyth, he also served as secretary of Capel y Morfa and chair of the Church and Society Board of the Presbyterian Church of Wales.

A distinguished academic career saw him serve as a member of the Commission on the Devolution of Wales (the Silk Commission), chair of High Performance Computing Wales and also chair of Fair Trade Wales.

He has also been chair of Higher Education Wales, vice president of Universities UK and board member of the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.