FIRST Minister Carwyn Jones congratulated Newport County on securing promotion back into the Football League He said: "My sincere congratulations go to Newport County on their promotion back into the Football League.

"Bad luck to Wrexham, who just missed out on a second triumph at Wembley in recent weeks.

"With Swansea City winning the League Cup, Cardiff City joining the Swans in the Premiership, Wrexham winning the FA Trophy, our very own Gareth Bale now considered as one of the best footballers in the world, and Newport County reaching the Football League - this has been a truly fantastic year for Welsh football."

South Wales East assembly member and shadow minister for sport, Mohammad Asghar AM, said: “This is extremely exciting news for the city of Newport and for the region as a whole.

“A return to the football league has been a long time coming for this club and the potential benefits to the city are enormous.

“I want to send my congratulations to everyone involved with the club - and to the fans for their tremendous support over the years."

His Conservative colleague William Graham AM added: “This is a sporting success that will have long-term and much-needed benefits for Newport and its surrounding area.

“Long after the well-deserved celebrations have subsided - the economic benefits will remain. This is a huge boost for our city and I send my congratulations to all who’ve helped make it happen.”