Plaid Cymru councillors have elected Councillor James Fussell as deputy leader of the group on Caerphilly County Borough Council.
Councillor Fussell, who represents the St Martins ward in Caerphilly, said: “I’m delighted to have the backing of the Plaid group and look forward to ensuring Plaid remains a key political force in Caerphilly, although in opposition.
“I’m keen to continue the positive approach Plaid has to developing Caerphilly town and borough and it is a better place to live as a result.
“I will be looking to engage with new, talented supporters who feel that they can contribute to Plaid’s future as we have a lot to offer the residents of Caerphilly and need to start building for the 2017 elections now.”
Councillor Fussell was first elected to the town council in 1995 and has been town mayor on two occasions in 1999-00 and 2003-04. He was county borough mayor in 2010-11, having first been elected to the authority in 1999.
Councillor Fussell has been member of the events committee in Caerphilly organising fireworks displays and the Christmas Lights festivities.
He added: “I enjoy promoting Caerphilly to visitors and to business people as we have a great town and borough to show off.”
Earlier this month Councillor Colin Mann of Llanbradach was elected as leader of the Plaid group.
Councillor Mann said: “I am very pleased that James has been elected by the Plaid group as my deputy. He is an experienced councillor and I believe that he has the respect of colleagues and officers alike.
“We have a big job to do in Caerphilly county borough. Plaid Cymru intends to be a constructive opposition but we will certainly be highlighting examples of where the new administration goes wrong. Plaid will be working towards taking control of the council in 2017 and we are confident that we can do this.”
Lost Icelandic Millions, stealth Taxes, cuts in services for the disabled, just a few of Plaids achievements , Plaid Cymru the party that fails