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Rhymney Labour politicians have paid tribute to the former councillor and “staunch” Labour member Dr John R P Evans. 

Dr Evans, who was originally from Pontlottyn, held many political positions including councillor for the ward of Twyn Carno – then Upper Rhymney ward – and Chairman of Rhymney Valley District Council.

He passed away on February 7 in Lancashire. 

He was described by Cllr Carl Cuss, the current Twyn Carno ward councillor, as a “very good friend” and a “very intelligent man”. 

Dr Evans held a Master’s degree and a PhD – achieving the latter in 1989 at the age of 48 while working both as a councillor and in adult education in Ebbw Vale.

Cllr Cuss, who now represents the same ward as Dr Evans once did, told Caerphilly Observer about Dr Evans’ dedication to the area.

“He was proud of serving the Twyn Carno ward, the eighth most deprived ward in Wales, for nearly 30 years. 

“He was a strong advocate for the north of the Rhymney Valley.”

Dr Evans was a “great orator” and was also “instrumental” in the construction of the Ael y Bryn community centre in Rhymney, according to Cllr Cuss – a plaque there bears his name. 

Cllr Cuss added in a post on Facebook: “He was also my election agent for two elections and was always very supportive and helpful in my role. I owe a lot to him for his help.

“My thoughts are with his family and his wife Jenny at this sad time. RIP Dr John, thanks for everything and [for] being an excellent friend.”

Dawn Bowden MS and Gerald Jones MP also paid tribute to Dr Evans.

Mr Jones, Labour MP for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney wrote: “I’m very sorry to hear that Dr John Evans has passed away.

“He was a staunch Labour member and a good friend. He will be sadly missed.”

Ms Bowden, who represents Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney in the Senedd for Labour, wrote: “Really sad news. John was such a lovely man – solid Labour and always hugely supportive. A man of and for his community of Rhymney.

“He will be sadly missed and my thoughts and condolences are with his wife Jenny and all the family at this difficult time. RIP comrade.”

Tributes were also paid by Tredegar Town Council, where Dr Evans was a former town clerk. 

According to information provided on Tredegar Town Council’s Facebook page, Dr Evans’ funeral will be held in Crewe on March 1 at St Mary’s Roman Catholic church.

A memorial mass will be held in the church of the Immaculate Conception, Tredegar on April 18.