WARM tributes have been paid to a popular Pembrokeshire magician who died suddenly at Pembroke Castle on Sunday (May 11) afternoon.

Phillip Jones, 52, of Milford Haven, who had been performing magic shows for more than 30 years, died at the Valero Spring Fayre to mark the 50th anniversary of continuous operations at the Pembroke Refinery.

Milford Haven Round Table paid tribute to Mr Jones.

Former chairman Ralph Rees said: “Milford Haven Round Table is very saddened to hear of the sudden passing of one of its past members Phillip Jones.

“Phil had not only been a past member of our Round Table but had also assisted us with many community events that we undertake, none more so than our annual carnival and very recent family fun day held only a few weeks ago.

“Furthermore he had been an outstanding ambassador for our Round Table movement and for our town and local community.

“Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Phil's partner and family - our thoughts and prayers are with them all at this very sad time.”

Pembroke Castle manager Jon Williams said: “Our thoughts are with Phil’s family and friends. We would like to say thank you to the St John Ambulance crew and the medical crew who attended to Phil at the event.”

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesman said: “Police were called just after 3.30pm on Sunday, May 11 to a report of the sudden death of a male during an event being held in Pembroke Castle.

“The next of kin have been advised. HM Coroner has been advised.”

A Welsh Ambulance spokesman said: “We were called at 3.40pm on Sunday, May 11 to a medical emergency at Pembroke Castle. Crew in an emergency ambulance and an ambulance officer attended, and sadly a man was pronounced dead.”

According to his website, Mr Jones had won several magic awards and he was the only magician to win the Rovi cup for magic three years in a row.

He had also written several books and articles for magicians and entertainers, and he had travelled throughout the country performing and teaching magic to fellow magicians.