As a local man, born and raised in Newport, with two grown up sons and grandchildren all living locally, it is very gratifying to see the tremendous regeneration and development all around us.

Bringing jobs, growth, a better standard of living and quality of life. Opportunities for local people in the new Newport East springing up before our eyes. Integrated transport, affordable housing,retail and leisure. New schools and hospitals.

All achieved by partnership - the Labour Welsh Assembly Government working with local councils to deliver for our communities.

A re-elected Labour Administration, tried and tested in office over the Assembly's first two terms, will drive forward this hard won progress using that experience and building on that partnership.

And we will continue with, and build on, policies such as: - free bus travel for over 60's and disabled people - free prescriptions for all - free swimming for children - record investment driving up standards in our schools and hospitals - regenerating our most deprived communities New pledges will see: - subsidised rail travel for older people - more things for our young people to do - additional childcare - new affordable homes - thousands of extra apprenticeships - a crackdown on litter - a fresh drive to help homes become more energy efficient - maximum 26 week wait from seeing a GP to operation or other treatment - extra Children's Bonds of £50 or £100 when starting school Welsh Labour has delivered and will deliver for local people, from Caldicot to the edge of Newport City centre. Putting into practice our values of fairness for all, equal opportunities and top quality public services.

It is a great privelege to represent Newport East in the Assembly, playing a part in regenerating and improving our area and services. Taking up thousands of cases for constituents and forging relationships with many community bodies and other organisations. I very much hope to be re-elected to build on that work and help take the constituency forward to a very promising future.