GRAHAM Evans has been elected to the Football Association of Wales (FAW) Council.

The Tregynon based former Caersws manager won a by-election following Phil Woosnam’s elevation to life peerage of the association earlier in the season.

Evans received 12 votes from FAW affiliated clubs in Central Wales to see off the challenge of ex-Carno manager Gareth Griffiths with nine and Eva Bredsdorff of Welshpool Town with one.

Six clubs did not vote with a further one spoiled vote ensuring Evans’ election.

Evans said: “I’m absolutely honoured to be voted in by member clubs and very eager to get going, once the formalities are completed.

“I’d like to thank all clubs for their support and engagement in the election process.

“I had some insightful conversations with passionate club representatives and my role is to now take these issues forward to ensure Central Wales is not forgotten.”

Evans’ election comes at a time with Central Wales struggling for suitable facilities to keep up with increased demand.

Even existing provision has decreased with Welshpool Town’s once thriving junior section left in tatters after Powys County Council developed a new school at Salop Field without providing replacement land.

Clubs have also hit out at the FAW’s lengthy administrative process in attaining international clearance for players.

However the most pressing concern is the future of football in Central Wales with the FAW enforcing a new pyramid from 2020 with the region set to lose its representation at level three and four, casting doubt over the sustainability of the Mid Wales League.

Evans insisted he was well versed in such concerns and would strive to fight for the area having played, coached and managed before taking his first steps in governance.

“Clubs in this area are affected more than most by frustrations such as the availability of facilities, international clearance, increasing bureaucratic administrative processes, as well as the pending tier restructure,” said Evans. “My aim is to ensure progress is made in these areas through raising the real issues at the highest level and working with FAW officers to seek resolution.”