A POPULAR and charismatic Barry man has lost his battle against cancer.

Well-liked Bernard Allman, who was due to celebrate his 52nd birthday in April, died suddenly at the Prince of Wales Hospital in his home town of Bridgend, on Sunday, March 9.

He is survived by his partner Linda and her son Christopher.

The Courtlands resident was a member of staff at Seel and Co Chartered Surveyors for 20 years, working in their Cardiff branch before opening the Park Crescent office in Barry two years ago.

He was a member of the Barry Lions Club holding the prestigious President's post twice.

And as member of the Pendyrus Male Choir, his love of singing was legendary.

Bernard's colleague Denise Baker spoke warmly about the man she considered not just a fellow employee, but a friend.

She said: "We all knew that Bernard had been diagnosed with cancer, but we thought it was curable. This has come as a big shock to everyone.

"Bernard and I were good friends out of work as well as in the office. We enjoyed each other's company. He always used to support me in my games of skittles. He was a very warm man."

President of Barry Lions Club, John Arbourne, added: "Bernard joined Barry Lions Club in 1985. His enthusiasm for Lionism and his desire to help those less fortunate than himself was clear from the outset. He held many club offices and he was President twice in 1988 and 1998.

"He was the brains behind the club's choir concerts and last year's successful 'Opera Night', which together raised many hundreds of pounds for the club. He gave generously of his time.

"His fellowship, wise counsel and unfailing humour will be greatly missed by all members of the club."

The funeral will be held at Coychurch Crematorium, on Monday, March, 17 at 10.30am.