Further tributes paid to Plaid Cymru AM Steffan Lewis

Thirty four-year-old Steffan Lewis, of Plaid Cymru, was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in 2017.

In a statement announcing his death, Mr Lewis' family said he died at Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr in Ystrad Mynach on Friday.

They said: “To lose Steff is the greatest possible blow to our family and we know that there are people throughout Wales who share our sense of loss."

 

Since then, many more people have expressed their sadness at the news. Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds, was among them.

Really sad to hear of the passing of @steffanlewis. He was a caring and passionate politician who always stood by his values and was an exemplary member of the Assembly. Sending my best wishes to his family and colleagues at this difficult time. https://t.co/h4qNFvUAcl

— Jane Dodds (@DoddsJane) January 11, 2019

The National Assembly for Wales has introduced a book of condolences, at the Senedd in Cardiff, for anyone wishing to pay tribute to Mr Lewis.

“Steffan’s determination to improve the lives of the people of Wales earnt him respect from across the political divide. I'll miss his friendship and his passion for Wales and his party"

Llywydd's statement following the sad passing of Steffan Lewis AMhttps://t.co/EpMC20DXgj pic.twitter.com/xaDKgQEkLM

— Assembly Wales (@AssemblyWales) January 11, 2019

Former leader of Plaid Cymru, Leanne Wood, added: "We have lost a good friend. Nos da Steff. Caru ti."

 

(Leanne Woods and Steffan Lewis in 2015. Picture: Plaid Cymru)

CEO of Nation Cymru, Mark Mansfield, said: "Steffan Lewis' heroic example will inspire Wales for generations."

And BBC Broadcaster, Felicity Evans, described his death as 'a terrible loss' for family, and Wales.

Thoughts with family, friends and colleagues of Steffan Lewis at this deeply painful time. A terrible loss for them. And also for Welsh public life which is undoubtedly poorer without him.

— Felicity Evans (@felicityxevans) January 12, 2019

Media executive of Football Association of Wales, Owain Harries, reminisced on his memories of Mr Lewis.

A few years ago I was lucky enough to film an interview with Steffan Lewis for @broadcastcjs with @sarahgoughy.

The time we spent talking with him off camera is probably the most inspiring and genuine conversation I’ve had with a politician. A huge loss for Wales. https://t.co/8wgCPMu3jk

— Owain Harries (@Owainhar) January 12, 2019

 

(Steffan Lewis speaking at the 2017 Plaid Cymru spring conference. Picture: Plaid Cymru)

And Community Housing Cymru described him as: "A fantastic politician and all round good person."

We’re all deeply saddened by the news @steffanlewis has passed away. He was a fantastic politician and an all round good person. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.

— CHCymru (@CHCymru) January 12, 2019

Gwent football club Pentwynmawr Athletic said: "We are deeply sorry and sad that our friend and club sponsor Steffan Lewis passed away yesterday.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Steffan’s family and friends."

Jayne Bryant AM called him an "lovely, intelligent, articulate and kind person".

Incredibly sad to hear the news that @Plaid_Cymru AM Steffan Lewis has died at the age of 34. A lovely, intelligent, articulate and kind person. My thoughts and love with his family https://t.co/w6OcTh4D4s

— Jayne Bryant AM (@JBryantWales) January 11, 2019

His family have praised the NHS for the care they provided, in particular the staff of Ystrad Fawr Hospital and his Oncologist, Dr Hilary Williams, from Velindre Cancer Centre.

(Steffan Lewis and his sister, Nia Picture: Chris Tinsley)

Last year, his sister - Nia Davies - organised a Valleys Walk for Velindre which attracted close to 170 people, from all political backgrounds, to show their support, demonstrating what a popular person he was.

South Wales Argus reporter, Ian Craig, was one of the walkers. He too shared his sorrow at the loss.

It's rare to say this about a politician, but everyone liked Steffan - regardless of political or ideological differences. This isn't always the case when someone is taken from us, but all the tributes you're seeing on social media are coming from a genuine place.

— Ian Craig (@ArgusICraig) January 11, 2019