Holywell's new Mayor on his plans to support the community
He grew up in Bagillt and attended Holywell High School, before studying at Loughborough University.
After living and working in London for ten years, he returned home and settled in Greenfield.
Now, he is aiming to make the most of his role as Mayor, helping 'strengthen partnership working across the community' and take on challenges of his own for the benefit of the community too.
Cllr Sprake said: "Greenfield is home, and I love living here. We're lucky to have some incredible local assets with huge potential. There's little better after a long day than walking my dog through Greenfield Valley or along the coastal path. Like any resident, I want the best for our community.
"It's a real honour to be elected by my fellow councillors. Their trust is humbling, and it's a responsibility I take seriously. But ultimately, the role isn't about me — it's about the office, what it represents, and fundamentally our town.
"I know the role of Mayor is largely civic and ceremonial, but a simple aim of any leadership role should be to build on the past, and leave things in a better place than where they found them. I pay tribute to my predecessor, Cllr Linda Corbett, who certainly achieved that, and I hope to do the same.
"One of my priorities is to promote and grow our local events. I'd encourage everyone to save the dates, come along, and see what our town has to offer.
"I also want to strengthen partnership working across the community. There's a real sense that Holywell and Greenfield are on the brink of something special."
He added: "Greenfield Valley has a bold ten-year vision with concept designs now published. The Holywell Placemaking Plan lays out a framework for revitalising our town.
"The campaign for a Greenfield Railway Station, which I've worked on for several years and helped to progress, has recently gained fresh support from the Welsh Transport Minister, and the Town Council has also received its Destination Management and Marketing Plan which we can now start to enact.
"If we can bring these strands together into a joined-up strategy, we could create real momentum for growth, aspiration, and opportunity. It won't happen overnight, but I hope we can look back and say we helped spark that change."
In recent times, anti-social behaviour has been a concern for the residents of Holywell.
Persistent issues have been raised via social media, as well aswith the council and North Wales Police.
Asked about how he plans to hep tackle this type of crime, the Mayor said: "I met with our local police recently, and at the moment, there are no significant ongoing problems, but things can change quickly as such issues are cyclical.
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He added: "I'm reassured our local police are well placed to respond and de-escalate when necessary. I would encourage residents to report any antisocial behaviour via 101 or the online portal. Of course, in any emergency, always call 999.
"I know people sometimes feel that reporting doesn't lead to action. But reports help police build a picture of what's happening. The more intelligence they receive, the better their ability to act effectively.
"Recently, we saw a spike in burglaries in Greenfield. In response, I proposed the council support a SmartWater initiative. SmartWater is a forensic liquid that marks valuables and helps police identify stolen items — it carries a 100% conviction rate in contested cases where it's used and therefore a significant deterrent to criminals.
"Normally retailing at £60, we're offering kits to Holywell and Greenfield residents for just £10. To apply, contact the Town Clerk at: town.clerk@holywell.wales"
As well as tackling crime, Cllr Sprake will also be tackling 10K races to help raise money for three local causes via his fundraiser which can be donated to here.
Kim Inspire, Age & Dementia Friendly Holywell and Holywell and Greenfield Churches will all benefit from his running.
He said: "Every pound raised will go directly to these charities, split equally at the end of my term."
Among the big events coming up in Holywell, being promoted by the Mayor, are; Food and Drink Festival (June 21), Party in the Park (July 26) and Pirate Festival (August 16).
Follow the Holywell Town Council Facebook page for all the latest updates.
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