TRIBUTES have been paid to noted Denbigh historian RM 'Bobi' Owen, who has died.

Mr Owen would have celebrated his 89th birthday next week and he has been described as one of Denbigh's "brightest stars".

Paying tribute to Mr Owen, county councillor for Denbigh Central Cllr Gwyneth Kensler said: "Denbigh has lost one of its brightest stars and is the poorer without him.

"However, his contribution to the town in very many ways - but especially to its local history - is immeasurable.

"How often have we said 'I'll phone Bobi - he will know' and of course he delivered the goods.

"He was a brilliant lecturer and speaker and had no need of written notes; his memory was astounding.

"He will be missed not only in Denbigh but also in Wales.

"He loved his home town and he was passionate about the Welsh language.

"Fortunately for us, he was a collector and a writer, so he leaves us with a rich legacy.

"A few of us had booked to celebrate his birthday with him on November 21; we shall still go ahead and shall celebrate his life and achievements.

"It was a huge privilege to have been one of Bobi's close friends."

Ruth Williams, the principal officer at Menter Iaith Sir Ddinbych, added: “Bobi was a treasure in his own right, and despite the huge loss, especially to his family and close friends, his legacy to the Denbigh community – and beyond - is huge thanks to the education he gave so many children, his collections, books, and articles in so many publications.

“Diolch Bobi for inspiring people to understand and take pride in our heritage and our local community.

"His love of his community, and the Welsh language, will continue to inspire many future generations I'm sure.”

As well as being a well-known historian of Denbigh, Mr Owen was headteacher of the former National School in the town.