THE Welsh Conservatives have selected a new candidate to stand for the Dwyfor Meirionnydd seat in the Senedd elections.

Charlie Evans, store manager at Marks & Spencer in Aberystwyth, said his main priority is to "bounce-back" the region's hospitality and farming sectors following economic uncertainty amid the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit negotiations.

Mr Evans, who will contest his first election at national level in 2021, said that if elected by the West Wales constituency he would also focus on "the preservation of the Welsh language" and promoting Welsh culture in Britain.

“I am delighted to have been selected for the constituency of Dwyfor Meirionnydd," said Mr Evans. "I have a strong connection to the local business area, particularly in the hospitality sector. Considering this is a large part of Gwynedd’s economy, I want to help it bounce-back from Covid-19 properly and stand up for our publicans who have been let down by the Welsh Labour Government in Cardiff Bay.

“I want to run a positive campaign focused on supporting our farmers, securing the best possible arrangements after the Brexit transition period. I will also highlight the plight of our health services within Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board, only now coming out of special measures after five long years. And I will work to diversify our local economy ensuring we have good secure jobs for local people with quality housing and excellent public services.

“As a proud learner of Welsh and being born and bred in West Wales myself, I want to put the preservation of the Welsh language and culture at the heart of my candidacy, as well promoting Wales’ place within Britain, whether for our strong economic ties or our sense of place."

Bronwen Naish, chairman of the Dwyfor Meirionnydd Conservative Association, said: “Charlie is a strong and energetic candidate who is passionate about Dwyfor Meirionnydd. As our Conservative candidate, he will look to unite the constituency from the divisions over Brexit and Covid-19 and ensure our area bounces back strongly in the new year.”

“Only the Conservatives can beat Plaid Cymru in this area, our strong showing at last year’s General election proves this. A Conservative Government in Cardiff Bay will deliver for the entire of North West Wales to build a fairer economy and spread opportunity throughout the region.”