A DAD has paid an emotional tribute to his son described as a 'free spirit' and 'lovable soul'.

Dean Jones, 35, was found dead on a beach in Prestatyn on Sunday, January 19. On the Friday before, Dean had been reported as a missing person.

Dean, who was a father of two, had four sisters. He had connections to Rhyl and Ruthin and had been a former pupil at Ysgol Penmorfa and Prestatyn High School.

Dean was described at his funeral on February 6 by Paul Robinson, from United Church in Rhyl, as someone who 'battled hard with his tough life' and someone who was thankful, respectful and gracious.

The ASK Centre, a community project based at the United Church in Rhyl which provides advice, food, access to online services, and community facilities, has become a big part of Dean's life.

Rhyl Journal:

Dean back in his younger days

Michael Godfrey, Dean's dad, said: "He was a lovable rogue who made and paid for his mistakes.

"He had a troubled life and he would turn to me. Whenever he needed help, we would do whatever we could for him.

"He was a a free spirit. We couldn't tie him down.

"Dean had his struggles, but he was always polite and a decent person," Michael added.

"He would always be thankful and grateful."

Michael, whose partner is Jill, added: "When life didn't treat Dean well - he always rose above it.

"He would turn up here and we would sit and talk and he would always appreciate it.

Rhyl Journal:

Dean 'battled hard with his tough life' and was some who was thankful, respectful and gracious

"His biological father travelled from his home in Australia to attend and help the funeral."

Michael expressed his thanks to those who found Dean and who stayed with him.

"I think it was a lady or two ladies. We are very grateful," he said.

"We also appreciate all the emergency services involved in the search for him and the lifeboat.

"The ASK Centre was a big part of Dean's life and they thought a lot of him.

"Paul Robinson... we can't thank him enough for his involvement and his help on the day of the funeral.

"The ASK Centre is a brilliant, brilliant place.

"I am certainly going to support them in the future. I could not speak highly enough about that place. People loved him so much there.

"In his service, Mr Robinson reflected on Dean's strength and how it inspired him to fight to make a positive impact on the lives of the people around him."