Sketty based lawyer, Craig Lawton, has been selected as the new Chairman of the Swansea West Conservative Association.

Mr Lawton, who studied Law at Swansea University where he also served as Chairman of both Swansea Conservative Future and South Wales West Conservative Future, takes over from outgoing Chairman Harri Lloyd Davies.

Mr Lawton paid tribute to the outgoing Chairman saying “Harri has achieved a great deal during his time as Chairman. Our share of the vote in Swansea West has increased upon each election while we also recently welcomed the Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons to open our new offices on St James’ Gardens in the Uplands.”

“I know there are some big boots for me to fill,” he said, “but I am ready to take up the challenge and I am relishing this opportunity.”

When asked about the goals he would like to achieve in his new position, Mr Lawton outlined his plans to “increase our interaction with the community so that we can help improve Swansea and the surrounding area.” He went on to say “it is important for us to engage with local residents and listen so that we can work with them where possible.”

Rene Kinzett, the former Conservative Group Leader in Swansea Council and Parliamentary Candidate for Swansea West, said “I know how hard Craig has worked, both for the party and Swansea, to date and I have no doubt that the Association will continue to grow and work to improve the community under his leadership.”

Mr Lawton takes over as Chairman of Swansea West Conservative Association with immediate effect. He will work with his executive which is made up as follows: Tom Giffard, Deputy Chairman (Political); Dayne Powell, Deputy Chairman (Fundraising and Membership); Harri Lloyd Davies, Treasurer; and Sarah Bickerstaff, Secretary. Paul Valerio, Swansea’s first Lord Mayor, will remain as the association’s President.