TRIBUTES have been paid this week to lawyer Simon Mumford, who had been a popular voice on Radio Pembrokeshire for a number of years.

Retired solicitor Mr Mumford, of Narberth, aged 59, who died of cancer, was also a former honorary secretary of the Cardiff Law Society.

The managing director of Radio Pembrokeshire, Martin Mumford (no relation), said: "Simon was part of the Radio Pembrokeshire family, and we are all devastated to learn of his passing.

"Over many years, Simon presented the legal advice slot on Radio Pembrokeshire and he also contributed to sports coverage and presented programmes for us.

"His warm, engaging style was a hit with our listeners, whilst his effervescent personality never failed to light up the room or the airwaves.

"Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time."

Bill Carne, who worked with Simon at Radio Pembrokeshire, said: "Simon Mumford loved life and nowhere did it show more than in his sport.

He loved playing football and most other sports but in his later years showed that he was also an excellent match commentator, especially at Narberth RFC, where he provided match reports that had a lovely balance of fact and good humour. I used to tease him about the comic asides to his reports – but Ben Stone and I loved listening to them on Saturdays.

"He was a lovely man and I am saddened by his passing.

Cardiff University law lecturer David Dixon was amongst many who added tributes to Mr Mumford, describing him as 'a solicitor, teacher, soldier, advocate, broadcaster, sportsman, funny writer, friend, role model enthusiast and inspiration."

The Cardiff Law Society's Michael Walters said that Mr Mumford had fought for legal aid and 'access to justice' and added: "It is an understatement to say his presence in the courts will be sadly missed by all that knew him."