PEMBROKESHIRE has lost a much-loved personality and leading disability campaigner with the death of Henry Langen of Narberth.

Mr Langen, who was 64, passed away at Withybush Hospital on Thursday, just 24 hours after returning from a holiday in France with his partner, Yvelaine Armstrong.

His energy and achievements throughout his life were outstanding, aside from the fact that, since his twenties, he had muscular dystrophy and in latter years used a motorised wheelchair to get around.

A former builder, working alongside his late father in his beloved Narberth, Mr Langen had been involved in a variety of businesses in the town and Pembrokeshire over the years.

He was also tremendously community-spirited, being a member of Narberth Town Council and a former mayor, and contested the 2010 General Election as an Independent Democrat candidate.

As a tireless activist for the rights of disabled people, he spoke out within many organisations, including Disability Wales, where he was a former vice-chairman, and the Pembrokeshire Access Group, where he was the current honorary president.

Mr Langen and Ms Armstrong had been together since 1985, and she said this week: "Henry was much loved, and he also loved, himself. He was diligent, courageous and assertive."

On behalf of Mr Langen's many friends, Stephen Jones praised his "inner strength and unflinching conviction" and described him as "a true legend, a fighter and a gentleman in the real sense of the word."

He added: "He never let his own disabilities prevent him from getting things done- in fact, it made him stronger."

Paying tribute on behalf of Narberth Town Council, the mayor, Councillor Ruth Platt, said members learned of Mr Langen's death with "deep regret".

She added: "I have known Henry for many years, and since he has been on Narberth Town Council, he has been a great asset, and has worked tirelessly for Narberth. He will be greatly missed.

"Narberth has lost a true friend and a good councillor."

In addition to his partner Ms Armstrong and her children Amber Wheeler and Rose Haddon and their families, Mr Langen leaves his five younger sisters - Margaret Smith, Joanne Denver, Ann Jones, Caroline Husecken and Sue Thomson - and their families.

His funeral takes place on Wednesday, June 28, at 1.45pm at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, and afterwards at the Plas Hyfryd Hotel, Narberth. There is no dress code.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Muscular Dystrophy UK, c/o the funeral directors, E.C. Thomas & Son, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH.