Scriptwriter and Wali Tomos actor Mei Jones has died

The actor and scriptwriter Mei Jones has died at the age of 68.

He was best known for co-creating and acting the character Wali Tomos, one of the best-loved comedy creations in Welsh language television.

Originally a radio programme before appearing on TV, he went on to star in five series, two films and one Christmas special as the linesman at Bryn Coch and won a BAFTA for his scriptwriting.

S4C confirmed his death this evening.

In a tribute to him, his C'mon Midffild co-author Alun Ffred Jones told S4C Newyddion: "Mei was a talented actor and original scriptwriter who always gave his best and expected that from everyone who worked with him.

“I could and probably should have written more but we can thank you for all that you have done. He made a very significant contribution to the Welsh entertainment scene. "

Henryd Myrddin Jones, originally from Anglesey, he went to university in Aberystwyth to study theology and then Cardiff's College of Music and Drama.

He then joined Theatr Bara Caws and was also known for his broadcasting work on Radio Cymru as part of ‘Wythnos i’w Anghofio’ and ‘Pupur a Halen’.

Newyddion hynod drist am Mei Jones, 'Myrddin Carwad' i mi a'r rhai fu'n gyd-ddisgyblion yn @DavidHughesYDH gynt. Cwsg yn dawel 🎭 pic.twitter.com/hwN7UbTME2

— Annes Glynn (@Yr_Hen_Goes) November 5, 2021

In 1990, Mei Jones was arrested by the police on suspicion of playing a part in the Meibion Glyndŵr campaign of burning holiday homes, alongside with another of the 'C'mon Midffî!' Cast, Bryn Fôn. They were released without charge. The experience was later satirised on C'Mon Midffild itself.

He was also a talented footballer, playing for Wales under 18s.

Amanda Rees, S4C's Director of Content, said: "Our viewers will be forever grateful to Mei for C'Mon Midffîld and Wali as the drama and characters are among the channel's greatest treasures. As long as Wali runs the line with his flag Mei will never be forgotten.”

He leaves four children, Ela, Lois, Steffan and Aron and three grandchildren.

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