A book of condolence has been opened by a newspaper after a former photographer at the title died from cancer at the age of 74.

Les Evans, left, worked at Wrexham daily The Leader for more than three decades and he became known as a “great character” in the town.

He was also the club photographer for Wrexham Football Club, which is planning a permanent tribute to him at the football ground.

Les died on Friday at a hospice in Wrexham after suffering from cancer and the Leader has opened a book of condolence at its High Street office.

Tributes have been paid following his death by journalists who worked with him.

Barrie Jones, editor-in-chief at NWN Media Ltd, said: “Les worked for the Leader for years and to many he became THE face of the newspaper in Wrexham.

“Everyone knew and liked him and it was impossible to walk down any town street with him without being stopped for a chat a dozen times.

“Les liked fun but was also very serious about his job. He loved his role at the Leader and was a perfectionist in everything he did.

“An excellent newsman – he was determined always to get the story and would work any number of hours to make sure he did.

“Above all he was a good friend and we are all very sad at the Leader to hear of his passing.”

Martin Wright, former associate editor with NWN Media Ltd, told the Leader: “Working with Les was a real privilege.

“He was a photographer of the old school, known by just about everyone in Wrexham and with a knack for producing pictures that told the story.

“He was also a great character and, through his contacts, provided a constant stream of tip-offs and stories.

“Of course his great love was Wrexham FC and in his 40-odd years of covering the side he captured many of the iconic photographs associated with the club.

“Les was, however, much more than just the Leader’s Wrexham FC photographer – he was a part of the club, loved and respected by players, staff and of course the fans. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.”

Along with being club photographer for Wrexham FC, Les also helped out with the Supporters Association and their shop.

Rick Matthews, NWN Media Ltd chief photographer said: “As a fellow photographer I had great admiration for him and learned from him.

“His work was not just technically excellent; it was his understanding and empathy with those in front of his lens that made his photographs so good.

“For those that took care to listen, Les was a great mentor, passing on his experience and they would become better photographers because of him.

“I will the miss his phone calls – ‘I’ve got this great picture bud’ or ‘I’ve got I fantastic story, can’t tell you yet but…’ and the pictures were great and the stories were fantastic.

“We shared some good times together in the months before Les passed away, reminiscing, putting the world to rights to the strains of Bob Dylan, Neil Young and jazz/folk music by musicians I had never heard of before.”

Les leaves his wife Sheila and children Gillian and Colin.