TRIBUTE has been paid to the chairman of leading social housing provider Cartrefi Conwy, who died suddenly at the weekend.

Huw Evans, 68, took over as chairman of Cartrefi Conwy a little more than over 12 months ago, having joined the board in September 2012

Cartrefi Conwy Group Chief Executive Andrew Bowden said: “This has come as a terrible shock and all of us at Cartrefi Conwy are deeply saddened at his passing. Our thoughts are with his wife Gill and his family at this difficult time.

“Huw played a significant part in leading our business. He is someone I got to know very well and held in high regard.

“Huw was a man of huge experience and great humanity, always taking time to meet and talk with colleagues and tenants so that he understood our business from every angle.”

He lived in Abergele and was actively involved in North Wales life for the, contributing to community based and regeneration activities in the area.

In 2011 he retired as Principal and CEO of Coleg Llandrillo following 22 years’ service which saw the college become established as a major resource and employer in the area with a national reputation. During this time he was recognised in the New Year’s honours list for services to education and received the Times Educational Supplement Lifetime achievement award.

On retirement, he was invited by Welsh Government to chair the Review of Qualifications in Wales and was appointed as chairman of the advisory board to establish qualifications Wales.

He had an extensive and successful track record of commitment to public service, experience of strategic management and leading high achieving organisations.