Arwyn Evans, a long-serving former journalist with the Brecon and Radnor Express, sadly passed away overnight on Wednesday, July 9.

Arwyn worked for the B&R for his entire career, serving as both reporter and editor, and became a well-known figure in the Brecon community through his involvement with local sports clubs and community initiatives.

He campaigned for the retention and improvement of Breconshire War Memorial Hospital, was active in Powys Health Authority, and helped organise meetings related to The Grange hospital.

A passionate supporter of sport, Arwyn was involved with Brecon Swimming Club and Brecon Athletics Club for many years. Though not a member of staff, he also helped organise Gwernyfed High School’s annual ski trips.

Arwyn underwent major heart surgery in the early 1990s but bounced back to remain actively involved in local sport and community causes

Nephew of Arwyn Evans, Keri Billen, shared the words that he will reiterate at Arwyn’s funeral, paying tribute to him. He said: “Arwyn Francis Evans, a long-standing journalist with the Brecon and Radnor Express, has died aged 79. Born in Trefecca near Talgarth on November 8th 1945 to Dennis and Doris Evans, Arwyn was known for his sharp intellect, dry wit, and steadfast commitment to his community.

“Arwyn’s career in journalism spanned decades, during which he became a familiar and trusted presence in the lives of readers across mid Wales. He possessed an extraordinary memory, often recalling the exact date, weather, and even the meal shared on an occasion many years prior.

“Beyond the newsroom, Arwyn was deeply involved in public life. He participated in organising Brecon-in-Bloom, and the town band. He was actively involved with the Gurkha regiment at Dering Lines. He volunteered for St John Ambulance, he served on parish councils and committees. He was a poll clerk and presiding officer at many local and national elections. He also sat on the Local Health Board to provide patient representation. He was an official at Brecon Athletics Club and swimming club.

“A quiet but constant contributor, he was the kind of person who helped keep things moving - often without needing recognition. He also cared for his mother for many years and maintained friendships across the globe. At Christmas, his card collection stood as a testament to the many lives he touched.

“Travel was another passion. In later years, he enjoyed visits to Croatia, and earlier in life explored parts of Europe and even made the long journey to New Zealand to attend his niece’s wedding.

“Arwyn was known for his warmth, generosity, and mischievous streak - traits fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews. Even in his later years, as he faced health challenges, he retained his charm, outlook, and signature attention to detail and rules.

“Though modest in lifestyle, his life was rich in service, community, and connection. Arwyn Evans will be remembered as a man of humility, humour, and lasting generosity. He is deeply missed by his family, neighbours, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”

As previously mentioned, Arwyn was heavily involved in athletics as a coach and track judge. Derek Osborne, of Brecon Athletics Club and a friend of Arwyn, paid tribute to him: “In the 1970s Arwyn was a Brecon AC coach who helped his group of athletes to considerable success. He was still in touch with some of them and they met up recently for a meal.

“Arwyn then became a highly qualified track official who officiated at British Athletics leagues and major championships across the United Kingdom. He continued however to officiate at Brecon Athletics Club matches when available and was also one of a small group of people who officiated for the Gwent Cross Country League, turning out in all weathers every winter. Arwyn took on the role of Powys AAA secretary for many years. In the role he helped by organising Powys championships and facilitating teams to represent the county. In all of these ways he made a major difference to a great many people.

“Brecon Athletics Club and others in the athletics community would certainly thank Arwyn for his huge contribution to our sport and to the way in which he selflessly gave up his time and used his skills to improve participants’ experiences. He touched many lives and was a friend to many locally and he will be greatly missed.”

Former distribution page layout supremo and former colleague to Arwyn, Gwyn Jones paid tribute to his late friend. He said: “Arwyn Evans began his career at the Brecon and Radnor Express and, as testament to his commitment to the paper and dedication to his role, quickly rose through the organisation to become editor.

“It was during his tenure that the great revolution took place. At this time the paper moved from hot metal printing to computerisation and the world of newsprint, as we knew it, changed forever.

“After his retirement, he remained deeply interested and involved in the local community; he would always stop for a chat and never lost the enquiring mind that had served him so well during his working life and still people came up to him with their hot news!

“He will be remembered as a true gentleman, someone who was always very helpful to everyone he worked with and to those he met, more laterally as he walked his dog around the local villages. His great strength was that he made time for people; he knew everyone and everyone knew him. He will be remembered with fondness by us all.”

Everyone at the Brecon and Radnor Express is deeply saddened by the news of Arwyn’s passing and all of us in the newsroom send our very best wishes to his friends and family.

The funeral of Arwyn Evans will take place on Wednesday, July 30 at 11am. The funeral service is at St Paulinus Church in the village of Llangorse.

A request has been made for family flowers only please, and any donations if wished will go to Parkinson's UK.