CLWYD West candidates have been speaking on their hopes for the upcoming General Election. 

Campaigning is now in its final stages ahead of the May 7 election, with hopefuls busy canvassing around their constituency in the hope of gaining a place in Parliament. 

All seven candidates attended a hustings event at Rydal Penrhos School in Colwyn Bay last week, which was arranged by Amnesty UK. 

Conservative candidate David Jones, said: “I am busy canvassing which is hard work, but also good exercise and the weather has also been kind which has helped. 

“The questions at the Rydal event reflected the fact that it was organised by the local group of Amnesty International, and focused on issues such as human rights and conflict. I answered them as frankly as I could and was very pleased with the expressions of support I received from members of the audience after the event was over.” 

Labour candidate Gareth Thomas, who was Clwyd West MP before losing out to Mr Jones, is hopeful of reversing the decision made by voters in 2005. 

He said: “Campaigning has been going well, and we have covered a vast area of what is a very big constituency. 

“I have done the job of MP before so I know what is expected, and I hope that Labour can once again be in a position to influence the people of Clwyd West.” 

Also in the running is Liberal Democrat candidate Sarah Leister-Burgess, who believes that she can “make a difference” if she is appointed Clwyd West MP. 

“Fairness and equality for all; that is what I believe in and will strive to secure for North Wales,” she added. 

Looking to cause an upset in the voting will be Plaid Cymru candidate Marc Jones and UKIP candidate Warwick Nicholson, with Socialist Labour Party candidate Bob English and 22-year-old Rory Jepson of the Above and Beyond Party complete the candidates for Clwyd West.