ON MAY 3 Argus readers have an opportunity to decide the future direction of our health, education and other public services in Wales.

Votes cast in Greater Gwent will decide 11 seats in the next Assembly - which will have greater powers than ever to make a real difference to people's lives.

With no party likely to get an overall majority - the outcome of those 11 seats will have a crucial influence on the shape of the Assembly and our country over the next four years.

If you choose not to vote, you are choosing not to have a say in Wales? future - and in your future.

And there is a real choice to be made.

Take health, Welsh Liberal Democrats are the only candidates talking about healthcare when you need it.

No-one else is putting forward a coherent package to bring together A&E, ambulance and GP out-of-hours services to provide a service which puts patients first - not targets.

On education we're the only people talking about smaller class sizes - which give our children more time with their teachers, and give our children a strong start in life.

The lack of affordable housing for people in Wales is a major issue too. We're the only party putting in a massive investment - an extra £150m on top of current budgets - to meet the challenge.

Not tinkering, like the other parties.

By giving greater freedom to housing associations they will be able to match that public investment with private sector cash to ease our housing crisis.

We're also setting the agenda when it comes to the green switch. We are the only party committed to producing our electricity from renewable sources by 2050 target.

We have the toughest targets on recycling too - 60% of domestic waste by the end of the next Assembly.

And if you're concerned about Crime, we'll fund an extra 500 PCSOS across Wales - that's 100 more in South Wales East alone - you won't get them by voting Tory or Labour.

Our manifesto is a serious programme for government. It contains the most ambitious programme to stretch the Assembly's powers so Wales' government make a real improvement to our quality of life.

Welsh Liberal Democrats can make a real difference in government - but only if you vote for us twice on May 3.