Tributes paid to ‘true legend’ dad
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FAMILY and friends of a new father who was killed while at work have paid tribute to “a true legend”.
Anthony Thomas died after an incident on the A465 Heads of the Valleys road near Merthyr Tydfil on Wednesday, September 21, at around 3pm.
The 42-year-old, from Banwen in Neath, is believed to have suffered an electric shock while working between Cefn Coed and the Baverstocks roundabouts.
Police said that a man had been arrested and bailed in connection with the incident.
Mr Thomas leaves behind his girlfriend Caroline Williams and their seven-and-a-half-monthold daughter Katie.
Mr Thomas, affectionately known as “Ajax”, was a popular player and coach with Banwen RFC and had also played for Dunvant during the mid- 1990s.
Nephew Kristian Thomas said: “He was like a father to me. I never knew my own father so he’d always be there when I needed him.
“Whenever I needed something, he’d be there – he’d do anything for anyone. He had millions of friends; we’ve even had calls from Australia.
“I’d like people to remember him for the person he was – he didn’t have a bad word to say about anyone.”
The tragedy follows the loss of Mr Thomas’ brother 20 years ago in a car accident.
Sister Karen Thomas said: “He’s lived in the area his whole life, he’s played in loads of rugby teams and was in the shooting club – he was very strong.
“It’s been such a huge shock. It’s going to leave a big impact – my parents lost a son 20 years ago and now they’ve lost another one.
“We’re all devastated, words can’t explain. The whole community is in shock. We’ve had calls from friends all over the place. He was such a wellknown person and he’s going to be sadly missed.”
Banwen RFC also paid tribute, saying: “Anthony ‘Ajax’ Thomas was a massive personality within the community and throughout the valley and he will be sorely missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
“He leaves behind a beautiful baby daughter Katie, who he cherished.
“We pass on our deep- est sympathies to all of Anthony’s friends and family for this tragic loss. As a former coach and player, we pay thanks for the many memorable years he and the team shared together. A larger-than-life character and a true legend of Banwen RFC.”
South Wales Police and the Health & Safety Executive are investigating.
A police spokesman said Mr Thomas had been working on a street lighting installation prior to the incident, which saw him taken to Prince Charles Hospital, where he later died.
“A 39 year-old man has been arrested and bailed pending further inquiries,” the spokesman added.