TRIBUTES have been paid to an award-winning Newport gardener who has died at the age of 95.

Les Guy, who was born in Risca and later lived on Ridgeway Hill, has been described as a “loyal” and “loving” man.

Son Simon Guy said: “My dad was such a loving man. He’d visit my wife and me every day without fail.

“His car is still outside our house from when he was taken into hospital. Sadly he died unexpectedly last Sunday.”

For many people the late Mr Guy will best be remembered as an enthusiastic gardener.

Simon Guy said: “He used to grow vegetables and all sorts of lovely things in his garden. His garden was always clean and tidy.”

The 57-year-old son added that his father had developed his passion for gardening “over the years”.

He said: “It was a number of years ago that dad became a keen gardener. He loved his gardening, it gave him a lot of happiness.”

In 2014, the gardening enthusiast came first in a category for the annual Newport in Bloom competition.

Mr Guy, who was delighted with the win, said at the time: “What I like about my garden is that there are a lot of elderly people up here who are infirm and they knock on my door and ask if they can have a look at my garden,” he said.

“It is just a mass of colour and blossom – like a cottage garden. Most of it is from cuttings or seed.

“I like gardening. I am 93 years old but it keeps me fit.”

Mr Guy’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, March 1 at Cwmbran Crematorium.

His son added: “We decided on that date because he loved rugby and Wales. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.”