Plaid Cymru has chosen local campaigner Jeff Grenfell for the forthcoming Van ward by-election to fill a vacancy on Caerphilly County Borough Council.
Caerphilly-born Jeff, who grew up in Lansbury Park, trained as a mechanical engineer, working for companies including JCB and Aston Martin, and is currently employed in aerospace in Cwmbran.
In recent years, Jeff, who served as a town councillor for Twyn Ward and a community councillor for Lansbury Park, said his key priorities included:
- Tackling antisocial behaviour, including off-road bikes
- Cutting delays and getting empty social housing back into use faster
- Poor road conditions, especially around Brynau Road
- Making sure green spaces are looked after and enjoyed by everyone
Jeff has worked both in Wales and abroad and has always been proud to say where he comes from. If elected, he hopes to give as much part to the Van community as possible.
Plaid Cymru has also chosen Alison Vyas as its candidate for the vacancy on Van Community Council.
Alison said: “I grew up in Lansbury Park, surrounded by strong women and a community that always looked out for one another. Those values shaped me and inspired my decision to stand for Van Ward.
“In the ward, we didn’t grow up as neighbours –we grew up as family. Every street had an auntie who checked in. Every neighbour was an uncle who made sure you were safe. Every doorstep was part of the support network that kept our community strong.”
Councillor Charlotte Bishop, leader of the Plaid Cymru group on Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: “It is with real sadness that this by-election is taking place following the tragic loss of Christine Forehead.”
She added: “Jeff and Alison are deeply rooted in their communities and understand the challenges facing Van ward — from antisocial behaviour to the effects of austerity. They bring commitment, compassion, and integrity, and will always put their communities first.”
"Plaid is attracting new people with new ideas who want to make a difference and I'm one of those."
The by-election will take place following the death of Labour councillor Christine Forehead last year. A date for the election has yet to be announced.