WITH the Six Nations in full swing it’s easy to forget that in a year’s time Wales will once again be competing in the Rugby World Cup

I have been campaigning in Parliament along with colleagues for the RWC to be made an event of national significance just like the Olympics, which would result in tickets being protected from mass touting activity.

But this doesn’t solve the problem long term of the harvesting of tickets for hundreds of events, only to be sold for massive mark ups minutes later.

I will be presenting the Sale of Tickets (Sporting and Cultural Events) Bill in Parliament next week in a bid to clamp down on this very problem.

I want a greater protection of consumers from both illegal activity and abuses of consumer rights.

I also had a chance in a recent interview to reflect on the hard work that has gone on so far around the Circuit of Wales proposals.

It could be a real gamechanger for Blaenau Gwent and the surrounding boroughs.

While the Welsh Government has done their due diligence on the plans and supported the venture financially, I have been in Westminster working to get the UK Government to throw their weight behind it (it’s hard yards).

The thousands of jobs and massive successes may not happen overnight, but it is a venture that could make a real difference. While some planning issues are to be overcome, the developers will need to bring forward financial investors soon, to move onto the next phase.

On Saturday, March 8, I will be joining others at the General Offices in Ebbw Vale to pay our respects at the unveiling of a plaque to one of our most decorated soldiers.

John Henry Williams, of Nantylgo, was decorated four times in one day by King George V for his gallant action during World War One.

He received the Victoria Cross for his single-handed rushing of a German machine gun nest.

Capturing 15 German soldiers in the process and saving many lives in his pinned-down company, Sergeant Williams then had to fight for his life when his captives realised he was alone.

Sergeant Williams succeeded in breaking away and bayoneting five enemies before the others surrendered.

It is a story about the horrors men faced when fighting for their country, but it was a feat of extreme bravery too.

It is going to be a humbling day and I am glad his achievements are being recognised.