Tributes to dad who ‘took life in his stride’

THE heartbroken family of a man who died after an alleged assault have said he was someone who “took life in his stride”.

Gavin Rees, 24, from Caerau, Maesteg, was taken to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff with serious injuries after an incident in a car park outside Maesteg Community Hospital on August 30.

Mr Rees, father to a four-year-old son, died as a result of his injuries on September 20.

Paying tribute to her younger brother, Kayleigh Phillips, 28, said: “Gavin enjoyed work and was always up for a laugh. He took life in his stride and nothing ever fazed him.

“He had a cheeky smile and was always joking around. He was a proud dad and would go with Tyler for days away.”

A director at his father’s scaffolding company, Mr Rees had a passion for motorbikes and was a keen member of the Valley Commandos Motorcycle Club. His sister said: “Gavin grew up with an interest in football and loved motorbikes. He would often spend hours taking them apart but could never put them back together again.

“He was boisterous and enjoyed spending time with his friends and going out as any 24-year-old would.”

Around 200 motorcyclists are expected to attend the funeral of Mr Rees this Friday, with a rideout planned in his honour.

A 44-year-old man from Llanharry was arrested following the incident in September and remains on police bail while further inquiries are carried out.

Detective Inspector Dean Llewellyn, of South Wales Police’s major crime investigations team, has urged any witness to come forward.

DI Llewellyn said: “Gavin Rees sadly passed away at the University Hospital of Wales late on [September 20]. Mr Rees’ family are being supported by trained family liaison officers.

“We believe there may be some people who saw what happened on the evening of Wednesday, August 30, but who have not yet provided a statement to the police. I cannot stress how important it is they come forward”

Anyone with information is urged to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 1700339264.