Local football and other circles are in mourning for one of the best-known and popular players in the Teifi Valley over many years and a “unique character.”

Tributes have poured in for Bargod Rangers legend Glanville Evans who died peacefully at his home in Drefach/Felindre on Thursday after losing his courageous battle with cancer aged 61.

‘Goss’ as he was popularly and affectionately known was Bargod through and through giving tremendous service to the Parc Puw club as a player and later behind the scenes.

The club is to consider the most appropriate way in which to honour the memory of one of its greatest servants and an announcement will be made at a future date.

A fiercely competitive wing half or defender he was a hugely popular individual off the pitch, his kind and friendly disposition endearing him to people from all walks of life.

He started playing for the club aged 15 and throughout a distinguished career wore the Rangers colours on his sleeve. After hanging up his boots he managed the first team and reserves and was appointed club treasurer in 1985.

Costcutter Football League life member Peter Davies who played against Glan with Ffostrasol and was a close friend since they attended Llandysul Grammar School said “Glan was a wonderful man who gave so much to Bargod Rangers Football Club.

“He will be missed by countless friends over a wide area,” he said.

Club spokesman Eifion Davies who played alongside him and was a lifelong friend said “Glan was a truly unique character and we have all been left devastated by his loss.

“The three things that were so important to him were his mother Rina, Llangeler Church and Bargod Rangers Football Club. His death is a massive loss to the community and he will be greatly missed,” he said.

A retired member of the finance department in the NHS he leaves his mother Mrs Rina Evans. The funeral is being held today (Tuesday) with a public service at Llangeler Parish Church at 12noon.