A FORMER Argus reporter has shared her memories of former Newport MP Paul Flynn - who died earlier this month.

Helen Leavey worked at the Argus from 1997 until 1999, during which she spoke to the former MP a number of times, including on election night in 1997, when he successfully defended his seat for the second time, extending his majority to 9.5 per cent.

Years later, in late 2014, Helen's son Sam, then aged almost 11, had become interested in politics and had said he thought only privately educated people could become MPs.

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This prompted Helen, now living in Yorkshire, to email Mr Flynn, who she remembered as "bright, thoughtful and witty" - who replied to invite them both to visit him at the Houses of Parliament in January 2015, saying: "I would love to meet your son and to try to challenge some of the propaganda he has seen".

"He took a great interest in Sam and really put him at his ease, as did his staff, she said. "After PMQs (Cameron and Milliband), which Sam found really entertaining, both of us likening it to the pantomime we'd recently seen, we met Paul again and had lunch with him in the Commons posh dining room. Sam tucked into a steak and shared his chips with Paul who, it seemed, everyone knew.

South Wales Argus:

Paul Flynn with Helen Leavey's son Sam in 2015

"He made me laugh when he later emailed to say 'It was great to spend a couple of hours with you and catch up with the gossip on exotic places. Who would have guessed that life could be more exciting than the Argus'."

Mr Flynn also gave Sam a copy of one his books, The Unusual Suspect, signing it 'To Sam. This is the way to become an MP'.

Helen added: "Back then Sam was saying he wanted to be a swimmer, architect, or, after the visit to Paul, an MP.

South Wales Argus:

Former Argus reporter Helen Leavey with Paul Flynn in Westminster

"He's almost 15 now, interested in all sorts and undecided on career, but says he still hasn't ruled out being an MP.

"His face dropped when I told him about Paul's death. It really was a lovely few hours we had at Westminster, with a charming and decent man and politician who had the common touch. Not everyone can talk to kids and inspire them."