TRIBUTES have been pouring in for a popular and talented journalist and musician from Dinas Cross who passed away aged just 36, following a brave battle with cancer.

Adam Barrah, a sub-editor for the Cambrian News, died at his home on the morning of Thursday, 7 January. He had faced his short battle with cancer with bravery and wit.

A member of several successful bands as a accomplished bassist, guitarist and singer, Adam spent most of his professional career as a talented journalist, including spending time in Cyprus working as a sub-editor with Cyprus Today and filling the same role for the Western Telegraph in Haverfordwest.

He spent the last two years of his life working at the Cambrian News offices in Aberystwyth, where staff were “deeply saddened” at his loss. Cambrian News managing editor Bev Thomas said: “Adam was a popular staff member of our newspapers who will be greatly missed.

“He was a dedicated and talented sub-editor with an eye for detail and great flair. In particular we will miss his dry sense of humour.

“He faced his short battle with cancer with such bravery and care for others. Our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.”

Adam’s immediate boss, assistant editor Natalie Betteley said: “I’ve known Adam since school, and was privileged to work with him on subs’ desks twice - briefly at the Western Telegraph and then, for the last two years, at the Cambrian News.

“His sudden loss at such a young age is a huge blow, and I know all his colleagues here will greatly miss him. His passion for the written word and for the publishing industry - which was in his blood - are a great loss.

“I will miss his joy at hitting upon the perfect pun and the sense of humour which he never lost, whatever he faced, even his courageous battle with cancer.”

Western Telegraph news editor Lee Day, said: “Adam made a huge impression on everyone and quickly became close friends with those he worked alongside.

“Adam was one of the funniest people you could ever meet and no matter how close to deadline, how tense the situation, he could be relied upon to be unflappable under pressure.”

Simon Carr, of Cyprus Today said: “I first worked with Adam on a local newspaper in Wales, and we were also housemates.

“Years later, as news editor on Cyprus Today, I was thrilled to persuade him to come and work with me abroad; not only because he was a great friend and talented journalist but also because he had a personality that could brighten a news room.

“He was a lovely person to know as well as being witty, intelligent and so much fun. Words just don’t do him justice. I know his friends in Cyprus are heartbroken at the news of his death, as is everyone who knew him.”

After attending Ysgol Bro Gwaun in Fishguard, Adam graduated from the University of Westminster with a degree in journalism. His musical journey hit its heights as a member of well-known Cardiff four-piece OK.

The band said they were “absolutely devastated and in total shock with the news” of his passing.

“We are so grateful to have shared many a stage, studio, beer and laugh,” the band members said.

Adam leaves behind parents Nigel and Angela, brothers Graham and Lewis, sister-in-law Mandy and grandparents Richard and Joy Sheen.

Adam’s funeral will be held on Monday at the Chapel of Rest on Feidr Castell, Fishguard at 1pm followed by cremation at Narberth Crematorium at 2.30pm. There are immediate family flowers only, but donations in lieu will go to the ‘Paul Sartori Foundation’ c/o Paul Jenkins & Sons Funeral Directors, Feidr Castell, Fishguard SA65 9BB.