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Islywn MP Chris Evans has responded to critics who questioned his route in replacing MP Wayne David as Member of Parliament for Caerphilly.

With Caerphilly’s current MP, Wayne David, set to retire at the next general election, Mr Evans put himself forward to replace the long-standing Labour politician.

When the decision was announced by the Welsh Executive Committee (WEC) earlier this month, it caused “dismay and anger” amongst Caerphilly constituency Labour Party (CLP), members, who didn’t have a say.

The Welsh Executive Committee is made up of representatives from each section of the party, including MPs, Members of Senedd, councillors, trade unions and Constituency Labour Parties (CLP).

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer on his decision to represent Caerphilly, Mr Evans said: “There are very exciting times ahead. I have always been a Caerphilly MP and I’ve always cared about the Valleys.

“With the new boundary changes in place, the Caerphilly constituency will incorporate some of Islywn, an area I know very well. These are big boots to fill with Wayne leaving, but I’m confident that by working with people it’ll be a successful period for everyone.”

In an open letter to the WEC earlier this month, the CLP said it felt “dismay and anger” at the way they had been treated, and that members should be afforded a “democratic selection process”.

On the criticism faced, Mr Evans insisted that “Labour procedures were carried out to the full” and that the focus is now on winning the seat at the next general election.

This comes as the Boundary Commission for Wales has announced that the Islwyn will be split constituency between Caerphilly and Newport West.

Ynysddu and Pengam, Pontllanfraith and Maesycwmmer will be part of the Caerphilly constituency.

A new constituency, Newport West and Islwyn, will include Abercarn, Argoed, Blackwood, Crosskeys, Crumlin, Newbridge, Penmaen, Risca East, Risca West and Cefn Fforest.

Mr Evans also has the full support of Mr David, who added: “I’ve known Chris since he was 14 and I have every confidence that he can be Caerphilly’s next MP.

“It’s always going to be a bit difficult due to boundary changes. He’s a sitting member with a good track record and I’m sure he will represent the constituency well if elected.”