The Shadow Minister for Local Government has backed a campaign for Cardiff to have Wales' first directly elected mayor.

Due to be launched in January, more than 20 thousand signatures must be obtained in order to trigger a referendum.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Local Government Minister, Janet Finch-Saunders AM, said:

“I back this campaign wholeheartedly and I look forward to working with campaigners in the months ahead. This is a chance to make a real difference, not just in Cardiff, but across Wales as a whole.

“Welsh Conservatives have long championed directly elected mayors and the massive benefits they would bring. A clearly identifiable and accountable elected figure will better promote our towns and cities all over the world, boosting investment and enhancing reputation.

“A local champion on a global scale; this is an opportunity not to be missed and communities in Cardiff deserve a say.

“The threshold for triggering a referendum in Wales is - unfairly - far higher than in England. That means plenty of hard work ahead – but the potential prize of our first directly elected mayor is well worth it.”