Helo pawb/hi all I've had a few requests for a bit of a bio/statement, so here it is - time to read, about 90 seconds: I’m very grateful to have been selected as Welsh Labour candidate for the new Aberystwyth Ward of Morfa a Glais in the Ceredigion County Council local elections.

Full statement

I do like elections - it’s an excuse to talk with people, normal people, about what our party is really about. And generally, they’re interested - especially those who say they aren’t!

I have won an election in the past, mostly by accident, but did manage to retain the seat at the next election. That was by hard work and helping my constituents and not by accident. Being a local councillor has been one of the most rewarding and humbling jobs I’ve had. Local councillors have great powers for good, to change lives and build communities; these powers and responsibilities have been shirked in Ceredigion for decades.

I’m delighted to be standing with Dylan Lewis-Rowlands for the new, two-member ward covering most of Aberystwyth Town (everything east of Bridge Street, Mill St and Park Avenue). He’s a joy to campaign with and is superb with people. And by people I mean voters of course - that’s anyone 16 or over for this election.

Our priorities are:

Encourage community ownership Annog perchnogaeth gymunedol

Rebuild a fairer local economy Ailadeiladu economi lleol tecach

Robust local transport network Rhwydwaith trafnidiaeth lleol a chadarn

Tackle poverty; heating or eating shouldn't be a choice Taclo tlodi; ni ddylai bwyd neu egni fod yn dewis

Democratic, accountable, and responsive council Cyngor ymatebol, ddemocrataidd, ac atebol

My brief personal bio is that I’m currently mostly bringing up baby Nikolai and working part time around childcare. Work is for a growing not-for-profit community interest company called Traumaform - providing affordable long-term therapy to those affected by Complex Trauma or PTSD. Of the three old wards that make up Morfa a Glais, I was born in Bronglais, brought up in Elysian Grove in North Ward and lived and worked in the centre of Central Ward.

I have twenty years’ experience helping people in a wide-ranging mixture of roles in the public, private and charitable sectors. Most recently I had six years work supporting people with substance misuse locally. This included providing assistance with housing, benefits, employment law, domestic violence signposting, access to health services, and access to education.

Outside of work I enjoy gardening and playing music with local orchestras. These activities help keep me grounded and composed.

In brief, a vote for me and Dylan Lewis-Rowlands is for a safer, stronger, & greener Aberystwyth

Hwyl am y tro

James Cook

Promoted by James Cook on behalf of James Cook at 112 The Cambria, Glan Y Mor, Aberystwyth SY23 2AZ.