I RECENTLY spent an afternoon in Cwm talking to more than 30 residents who have serious concerns about the withdrawal and poor quality of bus services in their community.

This is an issue that is raised with me on a weekly basis and is mirrored right across the borough.

Communities across Blaenau Gwent rely on bus services not only to access public services, education, training and employment but to visit friends and family.

We have seen fares increase and services reduce.

The poor bus services that our communities currently receive is not good enough and can leave some residents feeling isolated or struggling to get to where they need to be.

The people of Blaenau Gwent deserve and require better.

We need services that meet our needs, not services that meet the needs of others.

In the longer term I believe that we need to re-regulate bus services in order to work towards the integrated, high quality transport network that we require.

In the shorter term I will continue to campaign for improved bus services across Blaenau Gwent and will continue to press Welsh Government, service providers and the local authority on this matter.

I am keen to hear your experiences and what services you require, so if you have not done so already, please get in touch.

I was pleased this week to attend the Man Engine event at Park Bryn Bach, Tredegar.

It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying what was a truly magnificent spectacle and to see the park so busy.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all those involved in organising the event.

I also had the privilege of presenting Hospice of the Valleys with their Dementia Friendly award at the CARIAD stand in ASDA, Brynmawr.

It was great to recognise the efforts of all the staff and volunteers in working towards the award.

As chairman of the Dementia Friendly group in Blaenau Gwent, I want to pay testament to the hard work of all those involved in the excellent progress we are making in raising awareness of dementia amongst our communities.

My next advice surgery is being held on Friday, April 37, from 11am until midday at Llanhilleth Institute.

No appointment necessary.

If you are unable to attend a surgery and have any issues or concerns you wish to discuss, please get in touch by email: Alun.Davies@assembly.wales, by post: 23, Beaufort Street, Brynmawr, Blaenau Gwent, NP23 4AQ, by phone: 01495 311160 or via facebook.com/AMAlunDavies