**Youngest Councillor in Bridgend Breaks New Ground, Determined Not to Be Defined by His Past**
In a historic development for local politics, Bridgend County Borough has elected its youngest ever councillor, marking a significant moment for both the area and its political landscape. Owain Clatworthy, representing Reform UK, secured his seat at the age of just 20, following a tightly contested by-election earlier this year in the Pyle, Kenfig Hill and Cefn Cribwr ward.
This by-election was called after the resignation of former Labour member Mike Kearn, and the result was far from predictable. Clatworthy managed to edge out his closest rival, Labour candidate Gary Chappell, by a slender margin of just 30 votes—an outcome reflecting the ongoing shifts in voter sentiment within the region. This notable win arrived only weeks before a campaign visit to nearby Port Talbot by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who laid out the party’s ambitions for the forthcoming Senedd elections.
With his victory, Clatworthy has etched his name into the borough’s record books. No one as young has held office in Bridgend since its current administration structure was established in April 1996. He now faces the challenging, yet potentially transformative, responsibility of representing the residents of his local area.
Cllr Clatworthy’s journey into politics is underscored by a personal story that has resonated with many. He spent over a decade in the care system, moving from foster placements to a children’s home in Porthcawl after his early childhood in Kenfig Hill. Speaking candidly in a recent interview, he reflected on difficult times—including living in supported accommodation only three years ago and relying on Universal Credit to get by. He is clear that while his past is part of his story, it does not dictate his future.
He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that his firsthand experience has given him a unique perspective: “Many young people who grow up in care face challenges, too often getting caught in cycles involving unemployment, drugs or alcohol. I want to challenge those expectations—not just for myself, but for others as well.” Clatworthy’s experience as a support worker and his time volunteering at the Porthcawl food bank have also shaped his approach to public service.
Motivated by a desire to drive change rather than simply critique, Clatworthy decided to enter the political arena rather than remain a concerned observer. He is unequivocal about his role: “I’m not a career politician reading from a script. I’m just myself. People want authenticity, and although some might dismiss me for being young, it’s vital we bring more young voices with real-life experience into politics.”
Since Clatworthy’s election, Reform UK has seen a notable increase in local influence, with wins in by-elections in places such as Llanelli and Merthyr, where councillors previously independent have joined the party. The prospect of further advances in Bridgend is already on Clatworthy’s mind as he anticipates the next local elections in 2027.
Looking ahead, Clatworthy remains realistic but deeply committed to being a forceful advocate for those constituents who often feel their voices are drowned out. “Right now, as the only Reform UK councillor in Bridgend, I can’t promise miracles, but I can be a voice for those left unheard and hold the council to account,” he said. Key concerns raised by residents include rising council taxes, with many expressing frustration at what they see as diminished returns from increasing payments.
Clatworthy notes his intention to scrutinise council finances in the coming years: “I’ll work to understand where money is being spent and where waste can be reduced. By 2027, when auditors step in, I hope to have built a case for better stewardship of public funds. There’s a sense that momentum is on our side.”
As Bridgend’s youngest councillor in decades, Clatworthy’s story is a testament to the possibilities that can emerge when individuals from diverse backgrounds choose to actively take part in the democratic process. His journey underscores a growing demand for authenticity and lived experience in local government—something he hopes will inspire a new generation to engage in public service.