The Leader of the WLGA, Councillor Andrew Morgan, has paid tribute to Councillor Huw David OBE following the announcement that he is to stand down as Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council at the authority’s upcoming AGM.

Councillor David was first elected as the Leader of Bridgend in October 2016 and first became a member of the authority’s Cabinet in 2012. Since 2019, he has acted as WLGA’s Presiding Officer and has also greatly contributed to the Association’s work as its Spokesperson for Health and Social Care, and previously as the Spokesperson for Education. In June 2022, he was honoured with an OBE by the late Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of his efforts.

Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, WLGA Leader said:

“Over many years, Councillor Huw David has made a significant contribution to the work of local government and is well respected by all his peers across Wales, as well as many partner bodies. As Spokesperson for Health and Social Care, Huw has consistently shown his passion for protecting vulnerable people and ensuring access to care for those who need it. At no time was this more evident than during the Covid pandemic, as Huw took every opportunity to make the case for local services and the wellbeing of care workers.

“Huw’s disarmingly affable approach has been a key feature during his time as the WLGA’s Presiding Officer which has earned colleagues’ trust from all parts of Wales and across the UK. Throughout this time, he has shown true leadership and dedication in advocating for local government. His tireless work for local services at a national level is only matched by his great contribution to and pride in his community in Bridgend.

“Despite today’s news, I am confident that Councillor David will continue his tireless work in his community. On behalf of leaders across Wales and WLGA staff, I sincerely thank Huw for his contribution to local government spanning many years. And as a friend and a colleague, I wish him all the very best for the future.”