There was a feeling of profound sadness among parishioners of New Mill Full Gospel Church in Cardigan after the death of Pastor Teifryn George Harries.

Pastor Harris, who was aged 74, died peacefully at his home New Mill Church House on Tuesday last week after an illness borne with courage.

A native of the town, he was an apprentice engineer at RAE Aberporth, and also worked at the former Co-operative store in High Street Cardigan, and in farming and the construction industry.

He took up the ministry in 1971, and founded New Mill Church, which opened in March 1977.

Always ready to lend a helping hand, his kind and friendly disposition endeared him not only to his own parishioners, but to countless other people from all walks of life.

Paying tribute to Pastor Harries the Rev Irfon Roberts of Cardigan said: "He was a truly godly man who was held in high regard by his fellow ministers of all denominations.

"He was a man of the people, who by practicable application of the message he preached served the community and beyond.

"Teifryn and Sylvia's ministry together has been one that has been much admired.

"On a personal level I have lost a loyal and trustworthy friend," he said.

"He died a he lived - a man of prayer praising his Lord and Saviour to the last," he said.

A father and great-grandfather Pastor Harries leaves his wife Sylvia, and children Robert and Pauline, to whom sympathy is extended.

The funeral was held on Saturday with a service at New Mill Church where Rev Irfon Roberts officiated, assisted by the Revs Gareth Morris and Carys Ann and interment was in the town cemetery.

There were no flowers, but donations in lieu if desired, to New Mill Full Gospel Church, c/o Maldwyn Lewis, Funeral Director, Afallon, Penrhiwpal, Llandysul.