GOOD news for Newport! The announcement of the Newport City Economic Network and the Great Western cities agreement is a positive step for our city.

These two separate initiatives will encourage economic development in Newport, as well as encouraging the sharing of ideas.

Congratulations to councillor Bob Bright, leader of Newport City Council for his commitment and achievements ensuring the regeneration of Newport, and to the Welsh Government for their continuing support and resources.

Food poverty continues to be a real issue across Newport. I recently visited the Stow Park Church food bank to see the good work that is being done by Raven House and the church’s volunteers to help those in need.

The Stow Park Church food bank has been in operation since 2011 and has helped more than 3000 individuals with food, clothing and bedding. Whilst it is upsetting that such things need to take place to feed local people, I encourage my constituents to help support the Stow Park Church food bank if they are able to do so.

A small donation can go a long way, and it is important that we all work together to tackle the issue of food poverty in our city and across the country. To donate to or help the Food Bank contact: 01633 843730 or visit www.stowparkchurchcentre.co.uk

Tredegar House has re-opened its doors for the new season. The house has been cleaned and tidied over the winter months, and below stairs will be open with tours to the ground floor until March 1.

Here you’ll be able to find out what it was like for a servant living and working in a grand house, experience the hustle and bustle of the Great Kitchen, and take a peek inside the Housekeeper’s Room.

From March 2 until March 27, below stairs and ground floor rooms will be open with tours to the upstairs rooms, and from March 28 the house will be fully open. If you haven’t visited Tredegar House before now is a great time to experience one of Newport’s finest treasures. For more information visit: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tredegar-house/

Keep up to date with my activities by visiting www.rosemarybutleram.co.uk or following me on Twitter @RosemaryButler. To be added to my email newsletter list call 01633 222523 or email rosemary.butler@assembly.wales