RESPECTS were yesterday paid to a former council leader described as as someone who lived for his community.

People filled St Margaret's Church in Gilfach, with many moregatheringd outside in the rain, for the funeral of Harry Andrews MBE.

The former leader of Caerphilly county borough council died on Tuesday March 27, aged 80.

Born and raised in Gilfach, Mr Andrews worked at the Royal Ordnance Factory in Llanishen, where he trained apprentices, until he retired.

He represented the Gilwern ward for 49 years, as a district councillor and later on the county borough council.

He married Doreen in 1960 in Gelligaer and they lived in Gilfach where they raised their family. Mr Andrews was a great-grandfather and part of a close family.

During the service memories were shared by officiant Carolyn Corbin of the day the great-grandfather received his MBE at Buckingham Palace in recognition of his services to the community.

He was not only a councillor but also a justice of the peace and Ms Corbin said "Harry not only lived in his community, but lived for his community with his involvement in numerous organisations."

Speaking during the service, Gerald Jones MP said Mr Andrews touched the lives of many and that his service to his community was what defined him.

He said: "Gilfach was the community that he loved, it was his community and he represented well. He was also intrinsic to community organisations.

"He was such an easy person to get along with and he always knew what to say and when to say it. He really had a knack for putting people at ease."

He cited a number of projects and organisations he worked with, including creating a community garden.

He added: "He had the respect of his colleagues in the Labour group, but also gained the respect of councillors from other parties too, as well as council officers and representatives from partner agencies. He had their respect because he gave them respect."

Following Mr Jones' tribute,Megan Andrews, Mr Andrews' granddaughter gave an emotional reading of a poem entitled Walking With Grandpa on behalf of the grandchildren.

Among the mourners were serving politicians and representatives from organisations including Gwent Police who came to pay their respects to Mr Andrews.

The service concluded with Calon Lân and the coffin left the church to the sound of Shirley Bassey singing Diamonds are Forever.

Following the service the committal took place at the Wenallt Chapel at the Thornhill Crematorium followed by refreshments at Gilfach Workman's Club.

Donations were made for Dementia UK and Bargoed YMCA.