TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘wonderful’ former teacher and father of an acclaimed actor.

Eirwyn Evans, the father of Hollywood actor Rhys Ifans, passed away on New Year’s Eve.

And Mr Evans, an ex-teacher at Southdown CP in Buckley, has been described as being ‘much loved’ by his peers and will be ‘sorely missed’.

Tudor Hughes, ex-colleague and former headteacher of Southdown CP, said: ‘’Eirwyn was a wonderful colleague and was much loved by staff, pupils and parents.

“He was a true professional and was so very helpful to both young and experienced teachers. In his early days he took the football team, but he had a love for drama and put on annual school shows with the Year 6 pupils.

“Everyone loved these shows and they were a credit to him and showed his passion for drama. He will be sorely missed by everybody, both in a professional and non-professional capacity.’’

Mr Evans, a fluent Welsh speaker, was father of Rhys and Llyr and husband of Beti Wyn.

Following the birth of their sons in Pembrokeshire, south Wales, the family moved north to Ruthin where they lived for many years.

Some of Mr Evans’ former pupils took to social media to pass on their condolences.

Joanne Heron said: “This is so so sad, he was the best teacher ever. RIP Mr Evans xx.” Alana Corbett added: “RIP Mr Evans, you made our last year in primary great.” Paul Morris said: “RIP Mr Evans, what a teacher, the person who inspired me to be first pupil to go to Ysgol Maes Garmon from Southdown. Diolch Sir x.” Marie Cooper said: “So sorry to hear this. He was truly a lovely gentleman. It was a privilege to have been one of his students at Southdown.” Vicky Walters added: “Very sad to hear this, I was lucky enough to have him as teacher in my last year of school and have fond memories of him and he increased my confidence loads. RIP xx.”