Tributes to a ‘brave gentleman’

Tributes have been pouring in for a popular Welshpool man who died on Tuesday following illness.

Father-of-three Tony Windsor, 47, has been described as a ‘thorough professional’ by his employer Powys County Council and as a ‘born leader’ and a ‘gentleman’ by his former football manager at Llansantffraid, a club with whom he won the Welsh Cup and was a member of their 1996 European Cup Winners Cup squad.

And Facebook pages for his wife, Lin, sons, Chris and Mathew and daughter Steph, have been filled by messages of support and tributes to a man who was said to be making people smile right up to his final hours.

Originally joining Montgomeryshire District Council over 20 years ago, Tony went on to become the ICT Business Systems Manager for Powys County Council.

Councillor Russ George, Board Member for ICT, said: “Tony was a popular, well respected and thoroughly professional officer who will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He continued to work throughout his illness, only leaving the authority in the last few days, conducting himself with huge dignity and bravery.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family and friends at this difficult and sad time.”

Tony was a talented footballer, enjoying success at Llansantffraid, before moving on to help organise children’s football in Welshpool. He was also a big Everton fan and a member of their Mid Wales Supporters Club.

“It was a privilege to have known him,” said Llansantffraid Village manager Ray Jones. “When I first managed the club in 1989, Tony was my captain and I never came across anyone better. He was a born leader that was respected by players, management, fans and committee alike. A true gentleman in every sense of the word. He was a role model and showed great dignity in fighting his illness.

“All of us at Llansantffraid are devastated to have lost such a tremendous person and our thoughts are with Lin and the children.”