Former Welsh council leader, Alun Thomas, affectionately known as Ali, has passed away this year, prompting heartfelt tributes from colleagues and friends. Thomas served as the Neath Port Talbot Council leader from 2009 until his retirement in 2017. Described as an “unforgettable character,” he dedicated his life to public service, notably representing the Onllwyn area as a local ward councillor. His impact on local governance was significant, earning him accolades such as Local Politician of the Year in 2011 and an OBE for Services to Local Government in Wales in 2014.
Born and raised in Onllwyn, Neath Port Talbot, Thomas’s commitment to public service extended beyond his role in the council. He engaged in voluntary work from a young age, serving as a committee member of Pantyffordd Village Hall and Onllwyn Miners Welfare Hall. Additionally, he was a founding and life member of the Onllwyn Male Voice Choir. Thomas’s contributions to his community and the National Labour movement in Britain were widely recognised, reflecting his dedication and passion for serving others.
During a recent monthly full council meeting in March 2025, members honoured Thomas’s memory with a minute of silence, highlighting the impact he had on Neath Port Talbot and beyond. Current Neath Port Talbot Council leader, Steve Hunt, remembered Thomas as a true gentleman who led with passion and humour, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him within the council. Beyond his leadership roles, Thomas’s commitment to upholding the values of public service and community engagement shines through his numerous achievements and recognitions.
Thomas’s legacy extends beyond his time as council leader, as evidenced by the range of organisations and communities he profoundly influenced throughout his life. His unwavering dedication to representing the interests of the people of Neath Port Talbot was underpinned by a genuine desire to make a positive impact and improve the lives of those around him. The outpouring of tributes and condolences following his passing underscores the profound impact he had on individuals and communities alike, cementing his place as a respected and cherished figure in Welsh local government.
In addition to his leadership within the Neath Port Talbot Council, Thomas played a pivotal role on national platforms, representing the region on bodies such as the Local Government Association, Welsh Local Government Association, and the Industrial Communities Alliance. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life and advocate for the interests of his constituents set him apart as a dedicated public servant whose influence transcended geographical boundaries. The profound impact of Thomas’s contributions to local governance and community development is a testament to his enduring legacy in Welsh political history.
As friends, colleagues, and community members mourn the loss of Alun Thomas, his memory lives on through the countless lives he touched and the indelible mark he left on Neath Port Talbot and the wider Welsh community. His leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to public service have left an enduring legacy that will be remembered and celebrated for years to come. Thomas’s passing marks the end of an era for Neath Port Talbot, but his spirit and impact will continue to inspire future generations of leaders and community advocates in Wales and beyond.