POLITICIANS have paid tribute to a man who fought to make Welsh a living language.

Tributes have been paid to Aled Roberts, the former mayor of Wrexham and leader of Wrexham Council who later became a North Wales Assembly Member.

As Welsh Language Commissioner, he focused on the vision of a "Wales where people can use Welsh everyday".

Deputy Welsh Language Commissioner, Gwenith Price said: "Aled was a warm character with an extraordinary talent to bring people together.

"His love for his community, and his passion for the growth of the Welsh language in north-east Wales, drove him to want to see change which would benefit the whole nation.

"People were at the centre of everything he did. He had a firm vision for increasing rights for Welsh speakers, and for ensuring justice where he saw unfairness. He wished to see a Wales where every citizen had the opportunity to speak and use the language. His enthusiasm was unmatched, and he continued to work throughout his illness. It was a privilege to work with him.

"We are deeply saddened by the news of his death, and we know that everyone who has worked with him will feel the same.

"Our thoughts today are with his family; with his wife, Llinos, and their sons, Ifan and Osian, his mother and sister. Our deepest condolences to them in their loss."

Political parties in Wales have paid tribute to Mr Roberts.

Welsh Conservative and Shadow Welsh Language Minister Samuel Kurtz MS said: “We are very sad to hear about Aled Roberts’ passing and the thoughts of the Welsh Conservatives are with his family, friends, and colleagues at this difficult time.

“As a council leader, Assembly Member, and Welsh Language Commissioner, Aled made significant contributions to Welsh life that will be long remembered and well-regarded.

“He was always a pleasure to work with and we shall all miss his invaluable input into discussions on the future of our mother tongue. He will be deeply missed.”

First Minister Mark Drakeford led the tributes from Welsh Labour.

He said: "I am shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death of Aled Roberts today.

"He brought a breadth of experience to the role of @ComyGymraeg and focused on making Welsh a living language that's part of our everyday experience."

"My thoughts are with his family and friends."

Economy Minister Vaughan Gething said: "This is a real shock and very sad news. Best wishes to Aled’s friends and family."

Health Minister Eluned Morgan paid tribute in Welsh, saying: "Mor drist I glywed am farwolaeth Aled ⁦⁦@ComyGymraeg⁩. Roedd yn ddyn a oedd weinydd i’w gymuned ac yn bencampwr ar ran y Gymraeg. Roedd yn wleidydd a oedd yn gwybod sut i gael y gore mas o bobl. Colled enfawr I Gymru."