FOLK musicians will gather in Fishguard on Saturday, April 12 to celebrate the life of a popular local character.

Dai Crowther died in hospital last November following a long battle with cancer. He was best remembered for writing poetry, songs and playing his big twelve-string guitar.

Dai was heavily involved in setting up Fishguard and Goodwick’s popular folk festival, which attracts hundreds of people to the twin towns every year. He also worked as a landlord of The Royal Oak, where he held folk nights on Tuesdays and formed the Acorns Writers’ Group.

Gary Jones is the chairman of the folk club and former chairman of the festival. He said both the events are the only events of their kind in West Wales.

He described Dai as a real nice, friendly guy who will be sorely missed.

“Dai wasn’t just a publican, he used music to reach the heart of the community,” he said.

“He also had the Fishguard Arms in Haverfordwest, which he used as a launch pad for traditional music and community events.”

Dai’s family and friends are organising an evening of traditional music at the Royal Oak on Saturday, starting at 7.30pm.

All local folk musicians are invited, and Dai’s family would be very pleased if people attending would like to play or sing any of Dai’s songs.