A LEADING politician slated on social media because he favours Wrexham bidding to become a city has come out fighting.

Clwyd South Assembly Member Ken Skates said when thinking about the prospect of city status for Wrexham, residents of the county borough should consider the bigger picture.

Earlier this month the Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport urged business leaders in Wrexham to "think like a city, act like a city and become a city".

Speaking at the meeting for local business professionals, Mr Skates said: "We need to see ourselves as a city region.

"We should never underestimate the task ahead but we should endeavour to become a city region. Of that I am certain.

"If Wrexham continues to focus on growth, then city status is inevitable."

Mr Skates' city status preference prompted a barrage of complaints on social media from residents who want Wrexham to attempt to reclaim its former market town image and who believe the town centre is in an appallingly poor state.

But in an interview with the Leader the AM reiterated his views on city status and issued a direct challenge to those who have criticised his stance on the issue.

"I'd rather be hammered, mocked and ridiculed for having ambition than doing nothing at all," he said.

"All the people that don't think Wrexham should be a city should show some pride in their town.

"Wrexham has enough sceptics and critics from outside the area. We don't need our own people criticising as well."

He added: "I want a strong economy and Wrexham should be part of a city region. No town in North East Wales can call itself the capital at the moment."

Mr Skates pointed to the success of Wrexham's industrial areas and said the town's folk can look upon them favourably.

He also mentioned several business success stories in the area, including the Development Bank of North Wales, Village Bakery and Moneypenny.

When asked about the state of the town centre, Mr Skates suggested the town could work from the outside in.

"A modern city can start on the outer areas for the purpose of investing in its core.

"There is a high amount of development in Wrexham and residents should be very happy."