TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Neath Port Talbot Council leader described as an “unforgettable character” who passed away earlier this year.
The former councillor Alun Thomas, who was known by friends and colleagues as Ali served as leader of the local authority from May 2009 until his retirement from local government in 2017.
Born and raised in Onllwyn, Neath Port Talbot, he was a former miner who was said to have dedicated his life to public service, representing the Onllwyn area as a local ward councillor.
Speaking at the meeting the current leader Neath Port Talbot Council Steve Hunt said: “He was a true gentleman and an unforgettable character and for those that knew him here in the council as officers and members, past and current, would know he led with a passion and humour.”
A council spokesperson added: ” His dedication to local government was recognised with numerous accolades, including Local Politician of the Year 2011, an OBE for Services to Local Government in Wales in 2014, and an Honorary Doctorate from Swansea University in 2015. In April 2017, he was made an Honorary Freeman of the County Borough.
“He was well-known throughout the National Labour movement in Britain and represented Neath Port Talbot on the Local Government Association, Welsh Local Government Association, and the Industrial Communities Alliance.
“His contributions to voluntary work began at the young age of 14, and he continued to serve as a committee member of Pantyffordd Village Hall and Onllwyn Miners Welfare Hall, where he was General Secretary for 18 years. He was also a founder member and life member of the Onllwyn Male Voice Choir.”
Members in attendance at a monthly full council meeting held in March of 2025, later stood for a minutes silence in honour of the former council leader.
