Meet Lindsay Whittle, the new face representing Caerphilly in the Senedd! 🌟 This seasoned Plaid Cymru stalwart has finally broken Labour’s grip on the constituency with a resounding victory, gathering 15,961 votes to top the poll. Reform UK’s Llyr Powell trailed him with 12,113 votes, while Labour ended up in third place.
A local legend and dedicated public servant, Lindsay has been a prominent figure in Caerphilly’s political scene for decades. From council elections to multiple attempts at landing a seat in Westminster and the Senedd, his journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Known affectionately as “Mr Caerphilly,” his deep-rooted connection to the area began at birth in a miner’s hospital and continues through his lifelong residency.
In the world of politics, Lindsay’s interest sparked during the campaign to save Tryweryn, but it was the electrifying 1968 Caerphilly by-election that truly ignited his passion. His early days were filled with activism, so much so that he missed an O-level whilst campaigning for Plaid!
Starting his political career in 1976, Lindsay quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the youngest councillor in Great Britain at just 24. He’s served as Caerphilly council leader twice and now heads the Plaid Cymru group. Beyond politics, Lindsay’s heart is in community service, with commitments at local schools, a community coffee shop, and a foodbank.
Despite being 72 and eligible for retirement, Lindsay shows no signs of slowing down. He thrives on his unpaid roles, claiming, “I work better when I’m not paid.” His next goal? To shake things up as a loud backbencher in a “future Plaid Cymru government.”
Here’s to Lindsay Whittle, the unstoppable force from Caerphilly! 💪✨ Keep an eye on his next moves as he brings his passion for community and politics to the Senedd stage.