MOVING tributes are being paid to former Torfaen council leader Brian Smith, (pictured), who died on Sunday.

The 63-year-old lost a long battle with cancer and a brain tumour. A civic funeral will be held for him on Friday.

Among the hundreds of mourners expected to attend will be political figures, council officials and Mr Smith's many friends.

Current mayor Yvonne Warren and her predecessors will attend dressed in their civic chains.

Mr Smith was leader of the council for 20 years until his illness forced him to step down earlier this year.

His successor, Bob Wellington, painted a picture of a courageous man. "He was determined and fought right until the end," Mr Wellington said. "Brian was always so full of life."

Leader of the opposition Margaret Pead knew Mr Smith as a "young up and coming star" more than 34 years ago.

"Brian still had so much to give to the community," she said.

"I have been impressed over the years by his command of the various aspects of local government - he really did have an in-depth knowledge.

"Nobody who watched him in the chamber could not have been anything other than impressed by his knowledge."

Mrs Pead said her heart went out to Mr Smith's widow, Jean, and her family. Independent councillor Mike Davies told the Argus: "It was a tragedy when I heard he had died - a real feeling of regret.

"I would say Brian, as leader, did the best job.

"Democracy was the thing he was concerned with, no matter which party you came from. He allowed democracy.

"Under his direction there was a shared council."

Duncan Forbes, Torfaen council's solicitor, said: "He was a charming man who had a delightful sense of humour.

"Members of staff will miss him greatly."

Mr Smith's civic funeral will take place on Friday at 9.30am in St Gabriel's Church, Clomendy Road, Old Cwmbran, followed by cremation in Gwent Crematorium, Croesyceiliog.

His family have requested family flowers only but donations can be made in lieu to the Active Support Unit, Velindre Hospital, Velindre Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff, CF14 2TL.