Former Powys County Council cabinet member James Evans is to stand as a Welsh Conservative candidate at the next Senedd election.

The Gwernyfed councillor hopes to win the Brecon and Radnorshire seat from the Liberal Democrats in May 2021.

Councillor Evans described his selection as a "great honour and a privilege".

He stood down as Powys Council cabinet member for economic development, housing and regulatory services in early November.

Cllr Evans said: "I want to represent the people of Brecon and Radnorshire, delivering improvements in all aspects of their lives, standing up on issues important to us all.

"I know the constituency from top to bottom and I will deliver improvements to education, our health services and bring investment and well-paid jobs that this part of Wales has missed but so richly deserves.”

Cllr Evans said his priorities include raising the profile of the constituency in the Senedd, encouraging tourism and diversification, building houses, mobile and broadband systems, public services and business rates. 

He said: “I understand this region; the challenges of living here and the wonderful opportunities it offers. A prosperous economy is essential if we are to invest in our public services, the NHS, our schools and housing and realise our opportunities.”

Cllr Evans sits on the Local Government Association and is a Member of the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority. In his spare time, he likes to spend time with his young family and likes to keep fit.