THE large number of floral tributes and cards left near the spot where soldier Matthew Boyd was found are to be passed to his family.

The 20-year-old soldier from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment died after he was found unconscious on Lion Street in Brecon town centre in the early hours of Sunday, May 8.

Since the soldier’s death well wishers have left a large number of floral tributes and cards beside the Guildhall.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the tributes will be collected this week.

A spokeswoman said: "All cards and tributes laid at the spot where Private Matthew Boyd was found in Brecon will be collected and passed on to his family this week.

"A sign has also been placed at the memorial sight to inform members of the public that anyone who wishes to pay tribute to Matthew is welcome to make a donation to the family’s chosen charity the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

"Specially trained police officers are continuing to support Matthew’s family at this difficult time."

The police also released a statement, on behalf of Private Boyd’s family who live in Gibraltar, which thanked the community of Brecon.

It read: "We would like to thank the community of Brecon for their thoughts and condolences. It has given us such strength as a family at this horrendous time. Matthew was a kind and popular young man, and it has been wonderful to see his warm and kind personality being replicated through the kindness of complete strangers.

"We would like to thank the police for all of the work that they have done and will continue to do everything in our power to support them in getting justice for Matthew.

"The people of Gibraltar have been fantastic to us, and we are grateful for their support. We are particularly grateful for the support from those currently in Brecon from Matthew’s regiment, the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, who have gone out of their way to support us. We look forward to bringing Matthew home to Gibraltar.

"We now ask for time and space for us to come to terms with this devastating news."

Among the bouquets are personal messages and a 21st birthday card to the soldier who would have celebrated his landmark birthday later this month.

Two women who left bouquets next to the Guildhall, on the corner of Lion Street and Tredegar Street, but asked not to be named, said they wanted to support Pte Boyd’s family.

"It’s just to show respect to his family and to let them know everyone in Brecon is thinking of them.

"I heard about it on Sunday afternoon, it is just upsetting."

Several tributes have been addressed to "soldier" while the word Hero has also been spelt out.

One card addressed to "Dear soldier" and expressing sympathy with Pte Boyd’s family is signed "from Brecon residents".

A Royal Gibraltar Regiment wreath has also been left at the Guildhall and a poppy has been tied to the drain pipe along with soft toys.

Cards have also been left from Brecon Youth Club, the Bank Bar and the Market’s Tavern.