Plaid Cymru leadership: Rhodri Glyn Thomas backs Elin Jones

Plaid Cymru leadership candidates: L-R: Dafydd Elis Thomas, Elin Jones, Leanne Wood

Plaid Cymru AM and former heritage minister Rhodri Glyn Thomas says he is backing Elin Jones in the party's leadership contest.

Mr Thomas, the transport spokesperson, said he had confidence she could lead a team capable of rebuilding the party.

He also praised Leanne Wood, another of the three leadership candidates, saying he had been "excited and inspired" by her campaign.

Former party leader Lord Elis Thomas is also standing.

The three AMs are in the running to succeed Ieuan Wyn Jones, who is standing down after 10 years at the helm.

Rhodri Glyn Thomas was heritage minister when Plaid was in coalition with Labour

The winner will be announced on 15 March.

Mr Thomas, AM for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr, said: "I, like many others, have been excited and inspired by Leanne's campaign. The agenda has clearly been set for the party.

"However, side by side with this campaigning vision we need to rebuild the party.

"I believe that Elin has the ability to put together and lead a team of people capable of doing this and I fully expect Leanne to have an important role within that team.

"On this basis I will be supporting Elin in her bid to become the next leader of Plaid Cymru."