Council leader’s ‘complete surprise’ at OBE honour

Councillor Huw David, the recently returned Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council, has been honoured with an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) award.

Announced just ahead of the 2022 Platinum Jubilee celebrations, Councillor David was nominated by the Welsh Local Government Association in recognition of the strong leadership he demonstrated during the Covid-19 pandemic not only for the local authority, but as the WLGA’s Presiding Officer and Health and Social Services Spokesperson.

Reacting to the news, Councillor Huw David said: “It is both humbling and overwhelming to learn that I have been recognised with an OBE by Her Majesty the Queen after being nominated by the Welsh Local Government Association.

“The announcement came as a complete surprise, and I am both deeply honoured and extremely grateful.

“The last few years have been some of the hardest that we have all had to face, and I would like to acknowledge the incredible dedication of everyone who has worked throughout the pandemic to ensure that services have been able to continue and that vulnerable people have received essential care and support.

“Such efforts remain key to the success of how we have acted in solidarity as one within Wales to deal with the global pandemic, and you have my sincere admiration and gratitude.

“I would also like to recognise the hard work of my WLGA colleagues, and to thank them for their ongoing commitment. This is something that I will truly treasure, so thank you all.”

Commenting on the news, First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “Huw David has a real passion for improving local services in Bridgend and he has worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to support his local communities. This OBE recognises the effort he puts into his work every day.”

Chris Llewelyn, WLGA Chief Executive said: “On behalf of the WLGA, we would like to congratulate Councillor Huw David on being recognised in the Platinum Jubilee Honours List.  

“In his roles as the WLGA’s Presiding Officer and Health and Social Services Spokesperson, Huw has shown enormous commitment and dedication to public service, and for delivering the best possible outcomes for those he represents in Bridgend and wider communities across Wales.

“Huw has demonstrated an amazing energy and work ethic in the most challenging of circumstances and has been central to the all-Wales response to the Covid-19 crisis.

“On behalf of the local government family in Wales, we are absolutely delighted for Huw on this very well-earned recognition."