TRIBUTES have been paid to a Labour Torfaen county borough councillor who has died.

Councillor Cynthia Beynon MBE served as the ward member for Croesyceiliog North since 2012 and had previously been a councillor for the Panteg ward.

Torfaen council said Cllr Beynon spent much of her career working in social services and with the probation service, and dedicated many years to being a foster parent and working in the voluntary sector to support people with disabilities and learning difficulties.

In her political career she had served on the council’s cabinet holding portfolios with responsibility for social care, health, well-being and equalities.

Labour leader of Torfaen council Cllr Bob Wellington said he was deeply saddened to hear of Cllr Beynon’s death.

He said: “She was a good friend, colleague and outstanding ward councillor whose principles of fairness and equality left a huge mark on all those who had the fortune to work with her.

“We will always remember her drive and passion to help those disadvantaged and vulnerable people in our communities, standing up for those who needed it most. Our sympathies go to her family at this very sad time.”

Alison Ward, chief executive of Torfaen Council, said Cllr Beynon was a “highly respected member of the council and community”.

She said she will be “remembered warmly as someone who championed the rights of those in greatest need with great passion.

“Her tireless work across the voluntary sector, supporting people with disabilities and learning difficulties, and her passion for improving care services has made a difference to the lives of so many people in our borough.

“It is a very sad day for Torfaen and I will personally miss her very much. I would like to offer our sincere condolences to her family.”

Cllr Beynon also served as a community councillor for Pontypool, a school governor at Ysgol Gyfun Gwynllyw and Crownbridge Special School.

Earlier this year she was appointed to the Care Council for Wales.

She stood for the Croesyceiliog North ward in 2012 after she was de-selected from running for Panteg in 2011. She had represented that ward since 2008.