Date: 07/12/2021   |   Category - News

Two Welsh councillors have received recognition for their contributions to their communities at the national Councillor Awards organised by the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU). Cllr Kevin Etheridge from Caerphilly County Borough Council won the Community Champion Award and Cllr Neil Prior from Pembrokeshire County Council was shortlisted for the Innovation and Service Transformation Award.

Cllr Huw David (Bridgend), WLGA Presiding Officer said:

“On behalf of the WLGA, I would like to offer congratulations to Kevin and Neil on their recognition at the UK’s Councillor Awards. The LGIU’s event is the only national awards scheme recognising the vital work of councillors across the UK and we are proud that two Welsh councillors were amongst those recognised at these prestigious awards.”

Cllr Kevin Etheridge was presented with the Community Champion Award at a ceremony on 1st December for his work championing and campaigning on local issues such as foodbanks, road safety and public toilet closures. Cllr Neil Prior, who is also the WLGA’s Deputy Spokesperson for Digital and Innovation, was shortlisted for his work in Pembrokeshire on connected communities, linking hamlets and villages within the area during the pandemic.

Cllr David added:

“These awards and Kevin and Neil’s achievements demonstrate the significant contribution councillors make to our communities. Councillors make a huge difference and have been a critical part in coordinating the local response and supporting people during the pandemic. Councillors champion the views and provide a voice for their communities, influencing local public services and responding to local concerns.”

The WLGA and local authorities are committed to promoting diversity and are encouraging more diverse people to come forward to consider standing for election at next May’s local elections. For further information and case studies of a range of diverse councillors talking about their experiences and motivations visit Be a Councillor.

Notes for Editors

The annual Councillor Awards are now in their 12th year and champion what local councillors do for their communities. There were over 400 nominations received and 48 councillors shortlisted across seven categories. The winners were selected by a group of judges that included senior councillors and leading stakeholders from across the sector.

You can view the shortlisted councillors’ achievements online on YouTube (Cllr Etheridge from 13.23 and award at 27.45 and Cllr Prior from 44.49).