TRIBUTES have been paid to a former leader of Denbighshire County Council who has died.

Elwyn Edwards, a stalwart of Ruthin for many years, died earlier this week.

Mr Edwards passed away peacefully at Ruthin Hospital on Tuesday.

A Ruthin member on Denbighshire County Council for many years, Mr Edwards was a former leader of the authority.

He was also a senior civil servant with the Ministry of Agriculture and Mr Edwards was also well known in golfing circles.

He was the Denbighshire Golfing Union captain in 1998.

Paying tribute, Denbighshire county councillor for Ruthin Huw Hilditch-Roberts said: "Elwyn was one of Ruthin's unique characters.

"He was committed to the town and always did his best for Ruthin.

"We enjoyed many a run in on Ruthin issues since I became a councillor, but once the debate was over it was back to normal and banter was had.

"My thoughts are with Carol and family at this sad time and for their loss.

"In the words of Elwyn, 'see you soon'."

Ruthin town councillor Anne Roberts said Mr Edwards' legacy will live on.

"A son of Ruthin who did so much for the town, his legacy will live on in many ways," she said.

A memorial service for Mr Edwards will be held at St Peter's Church, Ruthin on Thursday, September 5.