LOVING tributes have poured in for a ‘pioneer’ for the LGBTQ+ community in North Wales following his death.

Keith Parry died with his family by his side on Wednesday, 2 November at the age of 67.

Originally from Pentraeth, Anglesey, Keith lived on Ambrose Street in Bangor for the last 20 years, with friends describing him as a true community hero.

Later in life, he set up a stall in Bangor’s Varsity Bar, where he would give out free advice, leaflets and condoms, to educate students and locals on the importance of safe sex.

This was a topic of particular importance to Keith, having lived through and lost loved ones during the HIV epidemic in the 1980s and 1990s.

Spending his small pension on items including thousands of glow sticks for customers to enjoy, in his spare time Keith volunteered around the community each week.

Keith also setup his landline as a safe line for anyone who was struggling, particularly for those who were scared to come out or needed some support and kindness, and sat by his phone all day and during the evenings to offer advice and be there for those who needed help.

Earlier this year, Keith was recognised for his dedication and pioneering work, receiving a lifetime award from North Wales Pride and an award from Chester Pride.

North Wales Chronicle:

He was recently recognised and mentioned in the Houses of Parliament for his community spirit and his outstanding support for the LGBTQ+ community, which including volunteering with the Mesmac helpline to providing a sexual health table at pubs and events.

North Wales Pride, who worked with Keith in delivering events and services for members of the LGBTQ+ community, thanked its friend for ‘absolutely everything’ he had done for his community.

A North Wales Pride spokesperson said: “It is with great sadness to learn about the passing of Mr. Keith Parry today. He was a pioneer and legend of the LGBT+ community in Bangor and North Wales for so many years.

“From days of sharing sexual health information and contraception at the Three Crowns and recently Varsity, to his weekly voluntary work at the local Mesmac helpline, to setting up the first North Wales Mardi Gras in 2011 which later evolved to North Wales Pride.

“We are so proud to have had the honour to present him with an award for his tremendous hard work and contribution at this year’s North Wales Pride. He loved his community and everyone within.

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“Many of us will share fond memories of Keith, from the days of snapping cheeky photos at the Crowns to his alter ego Blodyn Tatws, and we owe a great debt for his passion and dedication to our community over the years. You will be sadly missed, Keith!

“Our condolences to Keith’s family and friends. Thank you for absolutely everything - may you now rest in peace, our friend.”

Residents called Keith a “great guy” with one saying: “It was an honour to know him. A true gent. Always had a good chat with him in Bangor in the mornings. Keith having his daily costa and putting the world to rights.”

Radio Ysbyty Gwynedd dedicated today's morning show to Keith’s life, with his favourite songs and tributes to the man.

Updates will be provided on the arrangements for Keith’s funeral in due course.