Plaid Cymru has scored another victory in Neath Port Talbot as local rugby referee Jamie Watkins clinches the win in the Trebanos by-election! With a confident 51% of the votes, Jamie keeps the seat warm for the party, succeeding former councillor Rebeca Phillips who has moved on to the Senedd.
Trebanos, a quaint village nestled in the Swansea Valley, witnessed a spirited contest, but it was Jamie’s night to shine. Challengers included Graeme Kerrison of Reform UK trailing behind with 20%, followed by Hayley Davies (Welsh Liberal Democrats) at 18%, Stephanie Rhian Everitt (Welsh Labour) at 8%, Liz Hill O’Shea (Welsh Conservatives) at 2%, and Griff Miller (Green Party) at 1%.
Thrilled by the outcome, Councillor Watkins shared his excitement, stating, “I’m absolutely over the moon and phenomenally proud to be elected to represent my area.” With eyes set on the upcoming Welsh council elections, he’s ready to tackle local issues head-on, focusing on parking woes, improved public footpaths, and mending those pesky potholes.
With a voter turnout of 31%, the community has spoken, and Watkins is eager to get to work. That’s local democracy in action! 🎉
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