TRIBUTES have been paid to a 'lovely' and talented Buckley man following his sudden death.

Stuart Millward died aged 81 on August 5, at his home on Stanley Estate.

Mr Millward was very well-known around the Buckley area, having been a Pattern Maker and Plaque Carver in the Buckley Brick Industry for many years before retiring in 2003.

His outstanding services to the industry were rewarded by being awarded the BEM.

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The work Mr Millward was commissioned to carry out made it to various parts of the world.

Several have been used in projects as far afield as Japan, South Africa and Qatar, with further plaques being made for projects in France, Belgium and the Republic of Ireland.

A spokesperson for the Buckley Society described his death as a 'sad day' and an 'end of an era' for the town due to the role he played during the brickwork days.

A statement from the Society added: "Stuart's memory will live on through the many commissions he completed during his career. Some of his sculptures included items for politicians, other examples commemorated royal occasions. The skills involved brought wide acclaim throughout the construction industry.

"Stuart was a regular attendee at Society meetings and archiving sessions his knowledge of the local industries was second to none. He will be sadly missed by all."

The Leader:

PIC: Stuart Millward with some of his work.

Paying tribute underneath Buckley Society's Facebook post, Pauline Gunning said: "My heartfelt condolences go out to Stuart's family. I feel very lucky to have known such a beautiful gentelman."

Kathryn Wilcock added: "So sorry to hear this. I worked with Stuart at the brick works. Loved watching him work and listening to stories. RIP."

Tracey Jones said: "So sorry for your loss, I worked with Stuart at Butteley Brick, a very talented craftsman."

Alan Griffiths wrote: "really nice bloke was Stu, he will be sadly missed."

Dave Lewis said: "So sad, a lovely man who will be missed by many. RIP Stuart."

Mr Millward is survived by his wife Glenys, daughter Clair, son Martin, son-in-law Jonathan, daughter-in-law Claire and grandchildren Megan and Joseph.