Welsh Liberal Democrats Gain Yscir Ward from Reform UK

The Welsh Liberal Democrats are celebrating a major win in Powys following the election of local farmer Colin Millichap in the Yscir with Honddu Isaf and Llanddew by-election, dramatically gaining the seat from Reform UK.

Prior to the by-election, the ward had been held by Iain McIntosh, elected as a Conservative before sitting as a Reform Councillor and now a Reform Senedd Member.

In a crowded field of six candidates, Colin Millichap topped the poll for the Welsh Liberal Democrats with a commanding 39.6% of the vote. Reform UK finished second on 34.5%, failing to hold onto the seat. The remaining parties trailed far behind, with Plaid Cymru securing 12.9%, the Conservatives at 9.1%, the Greens at 2.0%, and Labour in last place with just 1.9%.

Reform held the second Powys seat they were defending in Llanyre with Nantmel, with the Liberal Democrats coming in second place. 

The Welsh Liberal Democrats have said that the result sets up a definitive frontline for next year's full council elections. Local party strategists point to the vote share as clear evidence that the upcoming county-wide battle will be a straight choice between the Liberal Democrats' and Reform UK, highlighting they have also successfully defended 5 seats on the council since 2022, in addition to the latest gain from Reform.

Colin is a well-known local farmer who lives in Llandefalle with his wife Mandy. Together they have four children and two grandchildren. Colin farms alongside his wife and three sons at Llandefalle and Yscirfawr, Merthyr Cynog, where they run a sheep flock and suckler cow herd.

Having lived in the area all his life, apart from three years spent studying at Aberystwyth Agricultural College, Colin has dedicated much of his career to supporting local agriculture and rural communities. He is a former Chairman of NFU Cymru in Brecon and Radnor, has served on the organisation's Livestock Board and currently sits on the Less Favoured Area Board.

Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, David Chadwick said:

"This is a phenomenal result for Colin and a massive win for the Welsh Liberal Democrats. Winning in Reform's own backyard proves that when it comes to the next council elections, the real choice is between the Lib Dems and Reform.

"The political dividing line for our communities is now crystal clear. It is a choice between the Welsh Liberal Democrats, who work hard, focus on practical solutions, and are determined to get things done for local people, versus those who simply look to complain, manufacture anger, and channel rage from the sidelines without offering any real answers.

"Colin’s victory shows that voters are rejecting empty populism in favour of local champions who actually care about delivering results. We will carry this momentum straight into next year's local elections in Powys. If anyone is interested in putting themselves forward to be a councillor, I would urge them to contact me."

ENDS