Meet the people who are vying to represent Bedlinog and Trelewis on Merthyr Tydfil Council as a by-election is set to take place on September 5. The previous councillor, Malcolm Colbran, has decided to step down for personal reasons, prompting the need for a new representative in the area. The candidates for the by-election include Edward John Dawson from the Conservative party, Megan Drozd running as an Independent, Naomi Hughes representing Plaid Cymru, Gill Preston from the Labour party, and Richard Searl as an Independent candidate.
Edward Dawson, the Conservative candidate, expressed his pleasure in standing for the Conservatives, emphasizing the importance of having a mix of parties at the local government level. With experience on the community council and involvement in heritage projects, Edward aims to bring attention to the regeneration needs of towns and villages, particularly focusing on community involvement and local heritage.
Megan Drozd, an Independent candidate, brings with her a background in community volunteering and a commitment to supporting local grassroots initiatives, particularly in areas such as sports clubs and ALN provisions. She highlights the importance of working together with the police to create a safer environment and advocating for the needs of families and residents in the community.
Naomi Hughes, standing for Plaid Cymru, emphasizes her experience in education and community projects, aiming to improve public transport links, facilities for various age groups, and opportunities for active lifestyles. Her focus on lifelong learning, supporting local enterprises, and strengthening the sense of community in Bedlinog and Trelewis underlines her commitment to enhancing the area.
Gill Preston, representing Labour, brings over 30 years of community work experience to her candidacy, pledging to be a strong voice for residents and provide regular updates on local issues. With a focus on community safety, access to reliable transport links, and responsiveness to residents’ concerns, Gill aims to continue her longstanding commitment to serving the communities of Bedlinog and Trelewis.
Richard Searl, an Independent candidate, emphasizes the importance of listening to the people and striving to address their needs and concerns. As chair of the local community council, Richard highlights past achievements in village development and aims to continue proactive community engagement if elected. His focus on representing the voices of Bedlinog and Trelewis residents underscores his dedication to community welfare and involvement.
With a diverse range of candidates vying for the opportunity to represent Bedlinog and Trelewis on Merthyr Tydfil Council, the upcoming by-election on September 5 is set to bring forth new perspectives and initiatives to address the needs of the local communities. Each candidate brings a unique set of experiences and priorities, reflecting a shared goal of serving and improving the villages of Bedlinog and Trelewis.