SWANSEA East MP Carolyn Harris has been elected as the first-ever deputy leader of Welsh Labour.

Ms Harris won 51.5 per cent of the vote, in comparison with 48.5 per cent who voted for her rival, Cardiff North AM Julie Morgan.

In an emotional victory speech at the Welsh Labour conference on Saturday morning, Mrs Harris pledged to be "a voice for members".

“While I always hoped I could win, I’ve never quite believed I would,” she said.

Although she recognised the campaign had been “tough” and at time she had felt “a bit battered” Ms Harris, who was elected to Parliament for the first time just three years ago, said she believed the effort had been worth it.

“In the Assembly, in Parliament and in councils – Wales needs Welsh Labour now more than ever.

“And, as I’ve said every day since this campaign began, I’ll be at the forefront of our campaigns - united behind Carwyn and Jeremy - remembering each and every day that there is so much more that we have in common as Welsh Labour members than things that divide us.”

Pleading to be “a voice for members”, she added: “I will work day in, day out to earn the trust and support of those who cast their vote for Julie.

“When we work alone, progress can feel like a bit of a slog. When we work together – and stand united – Welsh Labour is a force to be reckoned with. And a power for amazing good.

"I am proud beyond words to be deputy leader of such a party. And I promise you one thing – I won’t let you down."

Speaking to the Argus afterwards, Ms Harris said she saw her role as being responsible for “going out and campaigning in our communities to get to people to listen and to find out from the three million people in Wales what problems and issues are affecting their lives”.

“Sometimes there’s a simple solution to what seems an insurmountable problem, and that’s what I’m going to try and be good at – not talking about it, not writing about it – actually doing it

“I think I’ve got a good reputation for making change and for making things happen because I am not afraid to speak out and get my hands dirty.”

Congratulating Ms Harris, first minister Carwyn Jones said: "For the first time ever we have a deputy leader of Welsh Labour.

“I want to congratulate Carolyn Harris on her win and I look forward to working with her very much.

“I also give my heartfelt thanks to Julie for her campaign, and the superb contribution she has already made to Welsh Labour and will continue to make in the years ahead."