Plaid membership up 23%

27/01/2012

Wave of new members pledge to play part in making Wales better

Plaid Cymru has revealed that its membership has increased 23% in the past 4 months.

As nominations closed at midnight last night, the party said that its recent membership drive had been a big success and bodes well for the future as the party continues the process of renewal.

Since October the party has been undertaking one of its biggest ever membership drives, encouraging people to be part of Plaid at this crucial time in the nation’s development.

The membership drive used traditional and new media to communicate Plaid’s message to tens of thousands of people over the last four months - using online advertising, facebook, text messaging as well as other innovative techniques to communicate with the thousand of potential members who share in its vision for a better Wales. A letter was send to thousands of known supporters and branches, constituencies and members across Wales have all participated in the campaign to reach out to new supporters.

Plaid Chief Executive Rhuanedd Richards said:

"In October we launched the most innovative membership drive we’ve ever undertaken as a party. Since then be have seen our membership figures surge as people join the party to play their part in moving Wales forward.

“Our membership has increased by 23%. We’re delighted not only to be welcoming so many former members back, but were also welcoming many new members who have joined the party for the very first time.

Commenting on the reasons behind the membership increase, Rhuanedd Richards added;

“The fact that the party is renewing itself has inspired many to come home to Plaid. The debate on Wales’ future is very much at the forefront of people’s minds and many have decided that it’s only by joining the Party of Wales can we get the best for our nation and its people. The exciting leadership process has of course added an extra incentive to people to join.

“It’s clear that our membership, both new and existing members, have a renewed and united sense of what can be achieved for the people of Wales if we work together. After all, nobody else is going to put Wales first like Plaid will.

“Our grassroots members are a vital part of the Plaid. They’re the people who are ultimately going to help move the party forward and communicate our positive vision for Wales in their communities across Wales. We’re delighted to be welcoming so many new members and are looking forward to working with them to help Wales flourish and reach its potential over the following years.”