TRIBUTES have been paid from across the world of science fiction to a talented Wrexham filmmaker and writer Robin Bell who has died of cancer aged 37.

Robin, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 stomach cancer in December 2017, was known as a talented writer, director and producer, who wrote for a number of film and TV websites as well as writing an audio episode of the Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood.

Robin, who died on May 7, also co-created the cult series of horror and sci-fi short films Twisted Showcase which was recognised in 2012 when it was named in The Guardian top 25 must watch web shows, the only British series to make the shortlist. A third series was produced in 2014 with episodes featuring Red Dwarf actor Norman Lovett and Torchwood and Doctor Who star Gareth David-Lloyd.

Gareth, who played Ianto Jones in Torchwood, said: "It was Robin and his work that inspired me to write my horror series Black River Meadow and even though illness meant he couldn't be on set, all creative decisions were made between us. I've not only lost a friend, but a partner who was a hugely supportive driving force. Without Robin the first episode of it would never have been made.

"Not only will Episode II be dedicated to Robin but we are lucky enough to possess Robin's script for Episode III. I'm very proud to able to showcase his talent and bring his vision for our third chapter to life.

The Leader:

"August 30 is our pencilled date to start principle photography for Episode II. It will be harder without Robin's calming re-assurances, advice and creative flare but we will continue for him. We will finish this adventure for Robin."

"Robin Bell should be an inspiration for any local film maker," said actor Ally Goodman. "What he did with a bunch of crazy scripts and a shed-load of ambition and drive was remarkable.

"With hardly any resources he created an anthology that made national broadsheet critics' lists and gave local actors and crew the chance to work with stars from Torchwood, Dr Who and Red Dwarf.

"I will forever be grateful for the roles I got to play in Twisted Showcase and for getting to work alongside such a passionate and genuinely lovely, creative soul."

Big Finish, who produce Doctor Who audio dramas, tweeted: "We were saddened to hear about the passing of Robin Bell - a great writer and friend to many here at Big Finish. He will be greatly missed. Our condolences go out to his family."

Robin, who was a huge fan of Doctor Who, wrote articles and fiction for the Doctor Who Appreciation Society, Vworp Vworp magazine, Gorezone and Den of Geek. He had also recently been a story liner for Hollyoaks.

"Robin was a very talented individual, but more importantly to me, he was my friend," said Blogtor Who editor Susan Hewitt. "Robin was diagnosed with Stage 4 stomach cancer shortly after he joined Blogtor as our new news editor in December 2017.

"He was worried about signing on when he had such a battle ahead, but I told him we’d work it out as we went along. We did. And that happened to be one of the best decisions I have made."

Robin's brother, Colin also paid tribute. He said: "Rob taught Media at Deeside College and Castell Alun High School for a while before freelancing as a writer full-time and a number of his students have been in touch with warm stories of his teaching and how he influenced them going to University.

"He also had written a screenplay that Wrexham film directer SJ Evans at Dark Art Films is trying to bring to reality. It has a local angle as the backdrop is based around the Wrexham FA Cup giant-killing of Arsenal of 1992 so this might have some local interest. I'm really hoping someone might to make the film become part of his legacy."

Robin, whose funeral is tomorrow at Pentrebychan Crematorium, Wrexham, at 11am, leaves his wife Heidi.

She said: "Robin was incredibly brave throughout his illness and despite his situation he remained positive and continued to put others first."