THE FAMILY of a Newport pipe fitter paid tribute to their "hero" after his death from suspected asbestosis.

Roger Bird, 61, of Ogmore Crescent, Bettws, was described as one of life's true gentlemen, by the dozens of relatives, friends, neighbours and workmates who inundated his family with flowers, cards and phone calls since his death last Monday.

His wife of 44 years, Carol, expects hundreds to attend his funeral at St David Lewis Church, Bettws on Tuesday.

Mr Bird was born in Abercarn but settled in Bettws.

Mrs Bird said: "He loved Bettws and he loved this community."

As well as his children, Wendy and Robert, grandchildren Hannah, Ben and Jessica, and two-year-old great-grandson Ellis, Mr Bird was a grandfather figure to generations of children in Bettws.

Mrs Bird said: "Anyone needed their bike mending or a problem solving, they came to Roger."

His daughter, Wendy Oldfield, added: "He was so generous - he was like the grandad of Bettws."

Mr Bird trained as a car mechanic, before working as a pipe fitter at Uskmouth power station and around the world, from Poland to diamond mines in South Africa.

But his work is also thought to be linked to his early death.

Four years ago, he was diagnosed with a lung complaint, which was suspected to be asbestosis.

Mark Church, of Leo, Abse and Cohen solicitors, is currently pursuing a claim on behalf of the family for asbestosis.

Mrs Bird said: "He kept us all strong, and was always laughing. He was taken from us too soon."

Mr Bird's funeral will be held on Tuesday with a walking procession leaving from 48, Ogmore Crescent at 11.50am arriving at St David Lewis RC Church at 12.15pm.