TRIBUTES have been flooding in to the chairman of Rhayader Town FC and decorated Dyfed Powys Police officer after his death.

Local sources reported the death of Gareth Earp which has left the town in mourning.

In a statement released this morning by Rhayder Town FC they said "Today we woke up to the tragic news that our chairman Gareth Earp has lost his life.

"The Town is numb, we are all devastated and the town is mourning. We offer our thoughts, prayers and strength to Graham, Mair, Tamsin and the boys we will forever be by your side."

Other clubs also paid tribute to Mr Earp who was a prominent figure in Mid Wales football.

Neigbouring club Builth Wells FC said: "Our thoughts today are with our local neighbouring club - Rhayader FC who are sadly remembering their chairman Gareth Earp who passed away yesterday.

"Gareth had been part of local football for many years and has played with and against current members of Builth FC.

"Our deepest condolences are sent especially to his family and friends at this time."

There has been an outpouring of condolences online with many of the major institutions in the town such as Rhayader Fire Station, Rhayader Primary School and the town council changing, their social media to a black background with a blue line as a mark of respect.

Mr Earp was also a highly regarded officer for Dyfed Powys Police, being awarded a special commendation with his son in 2020 for apprehending a man "who threatened and robbed a vulnerable man".

Mr Earp saw the man "approaching and hanging around a vulnerable elderly person, and rushed home to tell his father".

Despite recovering from surgery and using crutches, Mr Earp followed and arrested the man.

He was later promoted to Inspector and served as part of special operations as part of the road policing unit.