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Former Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen community councillor Daniel Llewellyn has died suddenly aged 36.

Mr Llewellyn, who represented Plaid Cymru, died on Friday March 17.

In 2019 he became the first ever Plaid councillor to be elected to Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen (BTM) Community Council.

He won his seat in the Bedwas ward from Labour during a by-election, but lost the seat at last year’s community council elections.

Paying tribute to Mr Llewellyn, Caerphilly Council’s Plaid group leader, Cllr Lindsay Whittle, said: “Less than one year ago Dan Llewelyn was out campaigning for his community. Today we learn the sad and tragic news he has passed away at just 36 years of age.

“Dan, you were a true Cymro who cared for his family, community and country and will be hugely missed.

“Plaid Cymru members are united in their grief and send love to his Dad and all family and friends.”

In a joint statement, Peredur Owen Griffiths and Delyth Jewell – Plaid Cymru Senedd Members for South Wales East – said: “Daniel’s death is a big shock to everyone within Plaid Cymru. He was a well-regarded member, activist and above all, friend to many in the party.

“He was passionate about local causes and was not afraid to roll his sleeves up and get stuck into issues that were of concern in the community.

“He was dedicated, enthusiastic and loyal – he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

“Our heart goes out to his family, particularly his young son.”

Meanwhile, former Caerphilly town councillor Huw Jackson said: “Dan had been a Plaid activist for many years in BTM, campaigning on issues such as the dangerous condition of the Bedwas tips, flooding in Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen, against building on the Ty yn y Pwll pub site, parking issues in Bryn Heol and many, many more.”

Mr Jackson said Mr Llewellyn had been “working to regain his seat and had been working on a range of issues up to his death”.

He continued: “Dan was also a campaigner on issues affecting military veterans, having been in the army himself. In recent years he was honoured to lay the wreath on behalf of Plaid at Bedwas War Memorial on Remembrance Day.

“Dan was a true patriot of Wales. He was willing to put his head bravely above the parapet and take the flak, and for that he will be remembered by Plaid Cymru.

“Our thoughts are very much with his family. He will be sorely missed.”

Caerphilly’s Labour Senedd Member Hefin David also paid tribute and said: “My thoughts are with Daniel’s family and friends following this very sad news.”