TRIBUTES have been paid to a former mayor of Torfaen who has died.

Fredrick Hedley Bacon, 86, was also a dedicated member of Cwmbran Male Choir.

Born in London, Mr Bacon served with the Royal Navy, seeing active service towards the end of the Second World WarWorld War II upon HMS Mull of Galloway and HMS Resource.

A retired heating pipe-fitter, he was elected to Torfaen County Borough Council in 1982.

He served as mayor of Torfaen for the year 1993 to 1994 and was also governor for Crownbridge Special School.

He also held the position of deputy executive member for housing on the local authority, and was a member of several scrutiny committees.

Mr Bacon was a life member with Cwmbran Male Choir, with over twenty five years service.

He also served as a committee member and as chairman, until illness forced him to become a non-singing member of the choir.

The choir’s chairman, Clive Williams, described him as an “outgoing character” who enjoyed going on trips away with the group.

Even when he couldn’t perform with them anymore, he remained in contact with members.

Mr Bacon, was a top tenor in the choir and, in his memory, current members will perform three songs chosen by his family at his funeral.

They will include Ar Hyd y Nos, Calon Lân and The Lord’s Prayer.

Mr Bacon, a widower and father of four, died on June 24 after an illness.

The funeral will take place tomorrow at noon at the Holy Trinity Church, Pontnewydd, Cwmbran.