TO BE HONEST, elections for a seat on local community councils do not normally rate much attention.
Turnouts for elections tend to be low, and community councils operate on modest budgets with even more modest powers.
However, Wales has Senedd elections in May, and that will be a test of the political climate. For once, Westminster politicians will actually be paying attention to Wales!
The reason of course, is the rise of Reform UK and the fall of Labour and the Conservatives. Recent polls point to a two-horse race between Plaid Cymru and Reform – with Plaid leading in the most recent polls. Polls are more volatile these days – things could change – but there is precious little comfort for Labour and the Conservatives.
So, Plaid Cymru were delighted when their candidate Lloyd Wiltshire won the closely fought contest for a seat on St Athan Community Council, beating Michael Wood of Reform into second place.
With 223 votes, Mr Wiltshire gained 54% of the vote, 34 votes ahead of Mr Wood, who had 189 votes, or 46%. No other party stood in the election.
After the count, Lloyd Wiltshire, said: “I am very pleased to be elected to St Athan Community Council, and thank everybody who took the time to go out and vote, whoever they supported.
“As a councillor, I will do my best to represent everybody in St Athan, using the skills and experience I have developed as a debt advice caseworker, and through supporting the local scouts and the school PTA.
“St Athan has such a vibrant mix of people that make up this fantastic community; from working and military families to veterans, and so many people from different walks of life.”
By Philip Irwin – Senior News Reporter
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