MAJOR sporting fixtures such as Newport County AFC's FA Cup clash with Leicester City on Sunday have the potential to raise the profile of Welsh towns and cities across the world, an AM has said.

Sunday's game saw the Exiles pull-off a spectacular 2-1 victory against the former Premier League champions at Rodney Parade to go through to the fourth round, which will see them travel to Middlesbrough - home to the only other working Transporter Bridge in the UK.

And, speaking in the Senedd on Tuesday, Newport West AM Jayne Bryant hailed the victory, to cheers from other AMs.

Addressing finance minister Rebecca Evans, the Labour AM said: "Could we have a statement on how sporting events, clubs and individuals raise the profile of Welsh towns and cities?

"Newport County AFC's fantastic result against Premier League club Leicester City on Sunday was a sell-out. It was broadcast live on BBC and the result went worldwide.

"Our FA Cup draw against Middlesbrough will not only pit those two teams against each other, but it'll also be a battle of the Transporter Bridges, and our fantastic manager Mike Flynn is looking forward to going head to head with the Newportonian Tony Pulis.

"Hopefully, it'll be another great day for the city, the fans and the club.

"I'd be grateful for an update on how Welsh Government can use sporting successes like these to promote Wales and all that our towns and cities have to offer."

Ms Evans replied: "Of course I'm absolutely delighted to wish Newport County the best in their upcoming game."

The Exiles will travel to Middlesbrough on Saturday, January 26.