Tributes paid to town's British Legion chairman

* Phil Stroud.

One of the key figures in the town's ex-service community has died after a short illness.

Phil Stroud, well known locally as chairman of the local branch of the Royal British Legion, passed away at his home last week.

Mr Stroud, who was originally from Manchester and served for a number of years in the army with the King's Regiment, leaves his wife of 23 years Marie, children and grandchildren.

In a tribute to him, Llangollen Town Council says: "The Town Council were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Phil Stroud after a sudden but short illness. 

"Originally from Manchester, he made Llangollen his home where he served as an active member of the town’s Royal British Legion for a number of years most recently in the role of chairman."

Commenting on the loss, the Town Mayor Cllr Paul Keddie said: “Phil was a well-known citizen of Llangollen and a stalwart of the Llangollen branch of the Royal British Legion. 

"He worked closely with the Town Council staff to ensure that the Annual Service of Remembrance ran smoothly and his presence on the day as the chair, supporting the clergy and laying the Legion's wreath will be missed.”

Gareth Thomas, the Town Clerk, commented: “I express my sincere condolences to Phil’s family; he was a gentleman and contributed a great deal of time and effort in supporting the Legion and especially the arrangements for Remembrance Sunday. 

"I will miss his dry wit and the support that he has offered me over the years. It is truly sad news.”

* The funeral of Phil Stroud will take place at St Collen’s Church on Tuesday May 23, at 2pm.