COUNCIL ELECTIONS: It's a Goldie Lookin' election

Rhys Hutchings, better known to most as a member of hip hop group Goldie Lookin’ Chain, hopes to secure your vote in the local elections on May 3.

The Labour candidate for the St Julian's ward wants to prove politics is not just for retirees and younger people can make a difference too.

The former Rougemont School pupil, 36, who grew up in Allt-yr-Yn, hopes to attract more people to the polls and get the message across that every vote counts.

He also hopes his involvement will encourage more young people to take an interest in politics and local issues.

The songwriter first became interested in standing as a councillor after helping former Newport mayor Bill Langsford at his many fundraising events in 2010.

He said: “It got me interested and made me realise that I could make a difference and do something for Newport in a positive way. If it weren’t for Bill I don’t think I would have got involved. He really did open my eyes to it.”

Despite having better dress sense than his tracksuit and cap wearing alter ego Xain, he doesn’t always go unnoticed on the doorsteps.

He said: “Some people recognise me and some people don’t and that’s fine. I am not out there running as Rhys from GLC but at the same time I think the fact I am from GLC will maybe help to get things done in Newport for the people of Newport.”

Mr Hutchings, who moved back to Newport in the early 2000s to start the band after a short spell in London, says he will apply the same hard work ethic that saw the outspoken lyricists gain chart success with hits including, Guns Don’t Kill People Rappers Do, to represent the people of St Julian's if he is elected.

And with the backing of his band mates, he says he will continue his day job after the band regroups after a break this year.

He said: “Lots of people have run work and the council together, it’s no different to that. I just want to work as hard as I possible can for the people of Newport and St Julian's.”