Long serving councillors to run as independents after being de-selected by Conservative group

Councillors Anthony Ernest and Clive Williams who both represent Plymouth Ward on Penarth Town Council and have more than 72 years of council experience between them, will stand for the Vale council elections on May 4 despite the set back.

Cllr Ernest, who as first elected to the Vale council in 1978, previously served as a Vale councillor for Sully and was cabinet member for leisure and tourism.

He was involved in the setting up of the Penarth Tourism Association

"My decision to contest the seat has not been taken lightly and is a direct result of the outcome of a selection meeting held by local Conservatives," he said.

"It is usually the case for a senior councillor to be re-nominated, especially in Penarth.

"The experience and knowledge that I have given over many years to Penarth and the Vale, has failed to be appreciated.

"As someone who has lived in Penarth for the whole of my life, was born in Plymouth ward, has been both a Vale and town councillor for several decades, and is active in many Penarth based organisations, I trust that those who know me will appreciate the range of county council activities that I have been involved with.

"I cannot allow my considerable service as a Vale councillor to be closed by petty politics."

Councillor Williams, who has been a Vale councillor for 34 years, said he felt "let down" by the party.

He has also been president of Cardiff and Penarth Conservative Association for several years.

"I was not de-selected for any wrong doing," he said.

"I am totally amazed at being treated and let down in this way.

"I have given my life to Penarth and am as committed today as when I started.

"If endorsed I will continue to serve residents and support my fellow councillors."

A spokesman for the Cardiff South and Penarth Conservative Association said that Kathryn McCaffer and Ben Gray have been selected as the official Conservative candidates to fight the Plymouth ward.