FOUR councillors have adopted 'champion' roles and will lead the way when it comes to older people, homelessness, carers and learning disabilities.

Cllr Arwel Roberts, of Rhuddlan, has been elected as learning disabilities champion; cllr Ann Davies, of Rhuddlan, has been made champion for carers, cllr Ellie Chard, Rhyl South ward, has been elected older people's champion and cllr Brian Blakeley as been chosen as the homelessness champion.

The 'champions' were elected during a meeting at County Hall, Ruthin, last week. All will represent the local authority.

Speaking about her new role, cllr Davies said: "There is a massive burden of responsibility on the shoulders of carers, who come from all walks of life and often feel lonely and isolated but get on with what is a vital task.

"There are thousands of adult and child Carers in Wales and the numbers are increasing. We must ensure support and information reaches all carers who also need to be looked after. I will do all I can to achieve this."

Cllr Blakeley said: "It’s absolutely fantastic to be involved in the scheme. I'm looking forward to working with organisations like Clwyd Alyn (housing association) and social services.

"At this time of year, when you see people huddled up on Rhyl prom, I can’t help but think of how lucky I am to have had a roof over my head and warmth throughout my life.

"The role is an extension of the work I’ve been doing with Vicky Eastick and ladies who started Souper Sunday and Saturday provisions at the Dewi Sant centre."

Cllr Chard is a joint carer for her mother, a role she has taken on to ensure she stays in her own home.

"I have had type one diabetes since 1980 and was the secretary of the Clwyd North group of Diabetes UK from 1987 until 2010 and still help with fundraising in North Wales with the annual swim in Bala Lake every September," she said.

"I organised meetings with speakers in health issues such as walking and keeping active.

"I feel deeply privileged to be a 'champion' and will do my best to help our residents to live independently for as long as they are able to do so."

Cllr Roberts said he too was pleased to be awarded his new role.

He added: "I have experience as a teacher in Denbighshire, and have been a headmaster in Flintshire and Conwy, which I hope to bring to working with people who may have additional needs and require extra attention."