MORE than 500 people crowded into St Peter’s Church in Blaenavon yesterday to pay their last respects to Cllr Neil Lewis.

The hard-working Blaenavon town councillor died at his home in New James Street, Blaenavon, on October 16, surrounded by his family.

The former Torfaen councillor and ex-chairman of Blaenavon RFC had been suffering with an illness for quite some time.

The vicar of Blaenavon, Rev Dr Jason Bray, led the service with his colleague, assistant curate Robert Lindsay.

Among those in attendance were the leader of Torfaen council, Cllr Bob Wellington, mayor of Blaenavon Gareth Davies, mayor of Torfaen Wayne Tomlinson, members of Blaenavon Town Council, Torfaen councillors and AM Lynne Neagle.

Hymns sang as part of the service were Praise Him, Praise Him and Bread of Heaven.

The 40-strong Blaenavon Male Voice Choir also sang Rachie and The Lord’s Prayer.

Family friend and ex- Blaenavon town councillor Jeff Phillips gave a eulogy about Mr Lewis’ life.

Mr Lewis leaves his widow, Margaret, and daughters Sarah and Jane.

He was elected to Blaenavon Town Council and then Torfaen council in 1995 and was executive member for regeneration.

He was instrumental in the regeneration of Blaenavon after it gained World Heritage status in 2000.

In 2010 he met the Queen when he picked up his MBE at Windsor Castle.

While Mr Lewis was Torfaen’s executive member for regeneration in 2006, he was also chairman of the World Heritage Forum for the whole of the UK.

Following the church service, committal took place at Gwent crematorium, Cwmbran, and refreshments were provided at The Workmen’s Hall, Blaenavon.