TRIBUTES have been paid to a family man and former Rhyl town clerk who served the public for more than 50 years.

Oscar Morris died on March 6 at Glan Clwyd Hospital, aged 92. The father of two sons - Gary, 67, and Graham, 63 - was married to Gwyneth, 91, for 70 years.

The grandfather and great-grandfather had three passions in life – his naval service, his football and his local government service.

After leaving Christ Church School, Oscar joined the navy in 1942 and served on HMS Jervis as a gunner.

He returned home to Rhyl in 1946 and found work with the the Rhyl Urban District Council.

At the same time, Oscar was taken with the 'beautiful game' and enjoyed playing football.

Son Graham said: "He played and captained the Royal Navy forces' team in Malta during the war. The Maltese authorities wanted him to stay on after the war and continue playing for them, but dad declined and wanted to get home.

"His football career started pre-war with Flintshire schoolboys and the Rhyl Crescent.

"Liverpool FC asked him to go for trials which he did, but that was cut short due to his navy service."

Liverpool asked Oscar to return. He played for them for a short while before returning home, where he spent many 'successful playing days' with Rhyl.

He also played for Llandudno Junction, Holywell Town and Pwllheli amongst others and represented Wales at amateur level.

"He built up a considerable reputation locally," Graham added.

In 1947, Oscar met Gwyneth who lived in St George. They married the same year.

At first, the couple lived with Oscar's parents in Princess Street until they could afford their first home in Gwenarth Drive in Rhyl. They moved to Prestatyn 27 years later.

In 1964, through "sheer hard work", Oscar achieved the role of town clerk to the then Abergele Urban District Council, based at Pentre Mawr Park.

"To achieve that appointment in the way he did was astonishing," Graham said.

He went on to become director of administration at the newly created Colwyn Borough Council and subsequently, rose to chief executive.

He retired in 1990, but soon was approached by Rhyl Town Council.

Graham said: "He was only suppose to stay a few months but stayed for 12 years.

"He hung up his pen in 2003 after 56 years of service to the public, aged 77.

"Dad thoroughly enjoyed his work, always trying to help people. He achieved a great deal in North Wales.

"He always acknowledged the love and support he had from mum and his family knowing that his career meant sacrifices would be made.

"He didn’t have much time for hobbies, but his family came first and he loved his garden in which he spent many happy hours."

Oscar's funeral was held last Wednesday.