TRIBUTES have been paid to a “well-respected” bus driver who took passengers on trips across the UK and Europe for more than three decades.

Hugh Owen Hughes, known as Owen, died aged 72 on July 20.

Mr Hughes worked as a tour driver for Voel Coaches for 34 years, during which he became a popular face on coach holidays and would be requested for trips organised by community groups.

He was born in Bangor and moved to Llandudno Junction, attending Ysgol John Bright, before moving to Rhyl. There he worked as a HGV and taxi driver before becoming a bus driver for Voel Coaches, based in Dyserth.

Mr Hughes had stopped driving for Voel Coaches following an operation three years ago, however he had the intention to return to the job.

Sian, daughter, said: “Dad loved travelling everywhere; he got to travel to Europe and all the country, and loved meeting his passengers and having a laugh. There were too many places for him to choose from to say was his favourite place, but he liked Ireland and Germany a lot.

“He really suited to the job: someone could be stuck in the middle of nowhere and he could give them directions to get to where they wanted to be.

“It was a real boost for him when people would request him to be their driver.

“Often he would come home only for the weekend and then going away again; he would empty his case, get his clothes washed, iron his new stuff and his case would be packed again.

“He was always on the road doing something and he absolutely loved it. He enjoyed life and his work.

“But he also loved his family and being around his family. He was there typical dad, always there when I needed him or at other end of the phone, and he loved to see his grandkids and take them sweets.”

Mr Hughes had four children, Sian, Gareth, Leon and Rhiannon, 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

St Thomas’s Church was among the groups which nominated Mr Hughes as their driver during their bi-annual trips. The church said: “Owen was extremely well-liked by members; he was requested driver for parish holidays, which would take place twice a year. He was well-respected and thought of as a driver who was always professional.”

A Voel Coaches spokesperson added: “It is with great sadness we bid farewell to a loyal friend, colleague and tour driver who many of you would have had the chance to enjoy his fun, witty and caring personality on board many of our coach holidays.

“Sleep Tight Hugh Owen Hughes, who will be sadly missed by us all. Condolences to all of Owens family.”