THE appointment of a new clerk in Tywyn has caused controversy in the town.

Recently Francesca Pridding, who owns A Likely Story bookshop in Tywyn, was unveiled as the new town clerk, following Bedwyr Gwilym’s resignation earlier this month.

The appointment has come as a surprise to some as Ms Pridding is not a fluent Welsh speaker, despite an advert for the clerk stating “bilingual skills (English and Welsh) are essential for this post”.

The council has since said the new clerk has the “relevant skill set” for the position due to her “comprehensive local knowledge”.

The Cambrian News understands that Ms Pridding is currently taking Welsh lessons.

However, some residents are dismayed that people without Welsh fluency may have been denied the opportunity of applying for the post.

Speaking on the matter, former town councillor Dan Wyre said: “I’m just concerned for all the people that would have gone for the position if they had of known the Welsh language ability wasn’t that important for the position.

“I have been contacted by a couple of people who would have liked to have applied but didn’t.

“They are going to write a letter of complaint, if they haven’t already.

“It’s difficult to get a job in the area as it is, so job roles and descriptions have to be accurate so that it’s accessible to all.”

When asked about the new clerk’s appointment and her ability to speak Welsh, the council said: “Tywyn Town Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Francesca Pridding as the new clerk.

“Francesca’s appointment will be the first time that a woman has held the post and we are looking forward to supporting her through the six-month probationary period.

“Following a successful recruitment process, Francesca was interviewed by the majority of the councillors.

“During the interview Francesca impressed them as to her ability to perform the role of clerk due to her relevant skill set, legal training and comprehensive local knowledge.”

When pressed specifically about the clerk’s Welsh-speaking capabilities, the council added: “I think if you read the original advertisement for the town clerk’s post together with the response sent to you, you will find the answers to all your questions.”

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