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Tributes have been paid to a Neath Port Talbot county councillor who has died.

Martin Ellis, the ward councillor for Pelenna, was described as an exceptional man who worked tirelessly for his community.

A retired teacher who had been head of science at Cwmtawe Comprehensive, he was elected as an Independent to Neath Port Talbot Council in 2012, and re-elected in 2017.

At a full council meeting on Wednesday, April 24, councillors observed a minute’s silence in memory of him.

Leading the tributes, Mayor Dennis Keogh said he was a man of incredible intellect and was one of the finest socialists he had ever met.

Councillor Steve Hunt, Independent group leader, said: “Those of us who were at his funeral service would have experienced a wonderful celebration of the life of an exceptional man.

“He was well-regarded by his fellow councillors and officers, he was professional and courteous in all his dealings and he worked tirelessly for his constituents.

“Despite being diagnosed with a serious illness he continued to serve his community to the best of his ability.

“Members of the council will miss his well-considered and constructive input to debates.

“One of the key issues he focused on was giving all children and young people equal opportunity to achieve their potential.

“Over the years he sat on a number of committees such as corporate parenting, education, skills and culture, and leisure and culture.”

He added: “Those of us who know Martin and saw him fight against the cruellest of diseases would have been struck by his outlook, his determination, courage and bravery.”

Council leader Rob Jones said it had been a privilege to work with him.

He said: “I found his razor-sharp wit and mental intellect stimulating, he would relish any set of data that you gave him and it was a privilege to listen to him analyse it and get answers from officers.

“He still attended council and his committees throughout his illness, and supported his community.

“He bore his illness with courage and dignity. He will be missed.”

Mr Ellis died on March 30. His funeral took place at St David’s Church, Neath, on Tuesday this week.