SPORTING figures from across the region have been paying tribute to Corwen's Huw Jones.

Mr Jones, a major football and cricket figure in North Wales, died on Saturday at the age of 62.

A well-known figure in Corwen and beyond, Mr Jones was a well respected umpire and he held many positions at Corwen Football Club, most recently as president.

Wales international Harry Wilson, who hails from Corwen, tweeted on Saturday: "Sad to hear the passing of Huw ‘chick’ Jones today, huge loss for Corwen fc and the town as a whole!

"True gentleman who followed me from the start of my journey! RIP chick."

Phil Jones, the chairman of Wrexham Junior Football League, said: "It is hard to know where best to start in summing up his contribution to life on earth.

"Yes, most of my football friends will best remember him as the humble club stalwart of his beloved Corwen Football Club.

"However, what he achieved in life was much greater.

"As a local councillor and the unofficial Mayor of Corwen, his contribution was quite exceptional and he gave his time so freely helping those around him. Huw, without doubt, was one of the kindest persons I have ever met, full of fun and zest.

"He had time for everyone, was passionate about everything he did and right until the end he had an active role as president of Corwen FC, he was the Welsh National Football League vice-chairman and an executive member of the Wrexham Junior League.

"After finishing his playing career, which ended with a cameo appearance playing in goal at Castell Alun a few years back, he became their manager, then long serving secretary and in parallel was the driving force in bringing girls football to Corwen."

Steve Williams, the vice-president of the Welsh Football Association, added: "I’ve known Huw for over 35 years and the voluntary work he has carried out for his beloved community in Corwen is second to none.

"He was a warm caring person who always had time for people and was well respected.

"Corwen won’t be the same place to visit without his presence and I’m sure the community will not be the same without him.

"His love for football, both male and female at all ages, has driven the club from strength to strength and for the senior male team to get promoted in tier 2 of welsh football was something Huw was very proud of."

Also paying tribute, St Asaph Cricket Club chairman Gareth Ryan said: "This is a tragic loss to Huw's family and to the people of Corwen.

"Huw was everything to sport in his home town.

"Our heartfelt wishes go to all of them.

"All of North Wales cricket is deeply saddened of our loss of a lovely man who always had a smile on his face.

"He had the respect of all the players and it was always a pleasure to share a game umpiring with Huw."