THE leader of Wrexham Council is to challenge the current Liberal Democrat AM for the right to represent the party in the Assembly elections.

Cllr Aled Roberts, of Rhos, is to go head-to-head with Eleanor Burnham for the regional list constituency post with a vote of party members in North Wales set to close on October 25.

The winner of the contest will then stand in the Assembly elections next year for the right to represent North Wales.

Mr Roberts said: “I am looking forward to the challenge. It is important that party members take part in the democratic processes. I have known Eleanor for a number of years. It is important we have a well contested election within the party.

“We will have a good contest. We are facing a very difficult financial situation. It is important that the Assembly thinks outside the box. I think local authorities have done a very good job in the manner services have been delivered. The Assembly now has to rise to the challenge.”

Mrs Burnham, who was born in Wrexham, has been in the post since 2001 and has also served as the party’s youth spokesperson.

She said: “I think it is going to be a very interesting situation. It shows how important this position is in the party. I have fought off some very good opposition in the past and I hope to do so this time.

“I believe I have done a good job for the party and I will relish this very interesting situation. I know Aled well and have worked with him before.

“This is what democracy is all about.”

Voting opens on October 9 with one vote per party member.