Tributes have been paid this week following the death of renowned historian Dr Geraint Jenkins at the weekend.

Dr Jenkins, who fomerly headed the Welsh Industrial and Maritime Museum and the Welsh Folk Museum at St Ffagan, was the author of more than 50 history books and was a leading expert in Welsh maritime history.

A former High Sheriff of Dyfed and Ceredigion county councillor, he was chair of the county council in 2002-03.

He was a strong supporter of the Tivy-Side’s campaign to bring Cardigan Castle into public ownership and one of his proudest moments was signing the lease when Ceredigion bought the castle during his chairmanship in 2003.

Dr Jenkins was a valued trustee of Cadgwan Building Preservation Trust and was delighted when the trust secured a first round Heritage Lottery grant for the castle last Christmas.

Cadwgan chair Jann Tucker said: "Dr Geraint was a huge figure in heritage and his support was instrumental in bringing the castle into public ownership."

Dr Geraint’s successor as county councillor for Penbryn, Cllr Ian ap Dewi, said his death was a "sad loss".

"He was a good servant for the county and this area which was always close to his heart," he said.

Cardigan mayor Cllr Mark Cole said: "As a historian his knowledge was invaluable. He will be sadly missed."

Dr Geraint, who lived in Sarnau, leaves his wife Nancy and two grown up sons. A third son predeceased him.