PLAID Cymru in Wrexham has chosen a local gemstone expert as their candidate for next month's Maesydre county council by-election.

The by-election has been called due to the resignation of Councillor Paul Jones and Becca Martin, who has lived in the area all her life, has put her name forward.

The 33-year-old works as a gemstone specialist in a well-known town-centre jewellers, where she's worked since leaving school, and is the devoted mother to three-year-old Charlie.

She said: "I'm delighted to have been selected to stand in this by-election. It's important that the people of Maesydre have a voice on the council going forward, especially as there are some contentious issues to be discussed locally.

“I think that being a mother with a young child brings a different perspective to the council and I'll aim to do my best to represent everyone in the ward."

During the pandemic, Becca has coordinated the local Hugs4Heroes campaign to provide some treats for Wrexham Maelor staff.

She and the team have been filling bags to deliver to thousands of NHS workers at the hospital over a number of days.

"There's been a really good group of people working to make this a success,” says Becca.

“We all want to show our thanks and support for NHS staff and this is our small way of doing that - we're incredibly grateful to everyone who has donated free gifts, money and their time and effort to make this a success. It's been a very heartwarming experience to work alongside so many good people."

She said her priority as a councillor would be to give people in the ward a voice on the council.

The mum-of-one said: "People in Maesydre have been without a councillor for six months now and it's important that they have a strong voice speaking up for them on the council to raise the issues that are of concern to residents.

“These are difficult times for many people and communicating with electors will be difficult but I intend to use every possible avenue to get in touch with people and make sure they're listened to."

Councillor Marc Jones, who leads the Plaid Cymru group on Wrexham council and represents the neighbouring Grosvenor ward, added his support for Becca.

He said: "I'm delighted that Becca is the Plaid Cymru in the coming by-election. If she's elected, I will look forward to working with her in the interests of our residents on issues such as the plans for the Nine-Acre Field.

“She'll make an excellent councillor and has a real commitment to the area and reviving the town centre. She also brings a different perspective as a young mum and that's something the council as a whole should welcome.

"Plaid Cymru succeeded in winning the last council by-election in Gwersyllt North and electing Cllr Phil Rees earlier this year and I'm sure our team will be raring to go in Maesydre. Wrexham needs change for the better and this is a very clear opportunity for the people of Maesydre to have their say."

Any Maesydre residents wanting to contact Becca as their future councillor can do so on 07747 7792441, plaidwrecsam@gmail.com or her Facebook page - Becca4Maesydre.