SHOCKED and saddened politicians paid tribute yesterday to Gwent-born politician and scientist Dr Phil Williams.

Former Plaid Cymru Assembly Member Dr Williams, pictured, died suddenly on Wednesday in A Touch of Class massage parlour, Woodville Road, Cardiff.

South Wales Police initially investigated his death, but later said it was not suspicious and the case has been passed to Cardiff coroner Dr Lawrence Addicott. A post-mortem examination was due to be carried out yesterday.

Fellow South Wales East AM Jocelyn Davies said she had known her Tredegar-born colleague for many years.

"He was utterly dedicated to creating a better Wales for all of its citizens.

"He was very well known for his work on the economy and his fascination with all things to do with figures and statistics. His knowledge in his field was renowned."

Dr Williams, who was honoured by his colleagues when he was voted Welsh politician of the year during his time as an AM, had an office in Tredegar.

Ms Davies added: "Despite all his success he remained committed to the Valleys, and more specifically to Blaenau Gwent, where he was born and raised."

First Minister Rhodri Morgan said he was deeply saddened to hear of the death of 63-year-old Dr Williams.

"I knew Phil very well. He obviously had a brilliant scientific mind and I admired greatly his unique style in applying the principles of science to the problems of society and economics.

"He will be greatly missed in Welsh public life."

Nick Bourne, leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Assembly, said: "Phil was a key player in Plaid Cymru and I know that his contribution and hard work in the party was respected and acknowledged throughout the world of politics."

An official statement from his party said: "Phil spent his life fighting for the people of Wales and was a huge influence on Plaid Cymru. Everyone who met him was well aware of his formidable intellect and abilities."

Chairman John Dixon said: "Dr Phil Williams was a leading light in Plaid Cymru and had a distinguished history within the party. His expertise and economic acumen were second to none."

Everyone expressed their sympathy to his family. Dr Williams, who returned to his academic work in solar terrestrial physics at Aberystwyth University after standing down as an AM, leaves a wife, Ann, and two children.