TRIBUTES have been paid to a “one of a kind” former pub landlord from Denbighshire.

Ioan “Yogi” Evans, 72, died on the evening of Wednesday, February 6.

He was known in the Denbigh area for having run the Sportsman’s Arms, also known as Bryntillyn, for around 12 years and for opening his own brewery in the old Butter Market.

Mr Evans’ family were originally from Anglesey but after spending nine years in the Royal Navy and several more in the Merchant Navy, he decided to settle down in Denbigh, where he went on to work at the Nant Y Felin restaurant.

He became a well-known figure within the community and according to his son, Deri, he was “never afraid to try new things”.

“My dad had travelled extensively whilst on the submarines in the Navy,” he added.

“He was a lot of fun to be around and always knew how to make you smile."

Having suffered from cancer in his 50’s, Mr Evans had been given the all clear. However, it returned once again two years ago.

His son Deri says that it was looking after his dogs in later life that enabled him to carry on.

“It helped him focus his mind,” he said.

“He loved going for walks and he will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”

Mr Evans’ neighbour Bedwyr Griffiths says he was “shocked and saddened” to hear of his passing.

“He was a great character with a warm sense of humour, who loved his family, his garden and the dogs. May he rest in peace," he added.

Cllr. Mark Young recalled fond memories when asked about Mr Evans. “I first met Yogi when we first opened the ChocShop,” he said.

“He became a regular and he’d take me for the odd pint after work where he would share his memories of running the Sportsman’s and his brewery in Denbigh.

"I’ll miss our chats and laughs that we shared together greatly. Yogi was a one off and my thoughts and love go out to his family and friends."

Mr Evans leaves behind his four sons Peter, David, Christopher and Deri and step-son Andrew. His funeral will be held at St Asaph Crematorium at 11am on February 20.

The family say they are "grateful" to all at St. Kentigern's Hospice for the care given to Mr Evans over the past couple of weeks. Donations will be taken for the hospice during his funeral.