By Ted Peskett
The names of everyone running in an upcoming Cardiff by-election have been published. Former Cardiff Council leader, Heather Joyce, stood down as a Labour councillor for Llanrumney earlier this month due to poor health, triggering a by-election for the area. Ms Joyce, who served Llanrumney for more than 17 years, became Cardiff Council’s first female leader in 2012 and held the role until 2014. The by-election will be held on Thursday, July 24, and six people have put their names forward as candidates. Never miss a Cardiff story and sign up to our newsletter here . Here are the names of all the candidates running in the Llanrumney by-election and the parties they represent: Applications to register to vote must reach the electoral registration officer by 12 midnight on Tuesday, July 8, and can be made online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. Applications, amendments or cancellations of postal votes must reach the electoral registration officer by 5pm on Wednesday, July 9. More information about how to vote and voting by proxy can be found on the council’s website at www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/Your-Council/Voting-and-elections. In her letter of resignation, Heather Joyce said: “I hope residents feel I leave the ward a better place than I found it. “I take great pride in the progress we have made in the area over the years 鈥 particularly the new secondary school facilities for our young people. “The incredible range of sports facilities delivered around Llanrumney Fields, including the new BMX track, skate park, and Cardiff FC training facilities has further strengthened our community. “I am also pleased to see the forthcoming bridge across the river, which will provide a much-needed third exit from the estate. 鈥淪erving as leader of the capital city of Wales in 2012 鈥 a girl from Hirwaun; a grandmother from a council house in Llanrumney 鈥 was an incredible honour. “I hope my journey proves that anyone, regardless of their background, can aspire to serve in such positions. “I will always cherish my time as leader, especially spearheading Cardiff鈥檚 push to become the first council in Wales to pay the real living wage, launching the redevelopment of the city centre, and tackling the youth unemployment crisis we inherited. 鈥淚鈥檓 deeply grateful to my ward and group colleagues for their support over the years but most of all to my husband Lyn and my family for keeping me grounded during difficult times. “Finally, my sincerest thanks to the people of Llanrumney for placing their faith in me over four successive elections. I hope I have served you well and I wish my successor the very best.鈥