HERE's the latest Argus column by Newport East MP Jessica Morden:

IT WAS brilliant to welcome Ruth Jones to Parliament as the new MP for Newport West.

Whilst the by-election in Newport West came in sad circumstances following the death of my long-time colleague Paul Flynn, Ruth ensured that it was always fought in a positive spirit, and her enthusiasm for Newport and its people was evident on the doorstep.

Ruth will make a great MP for Newport West, and I look forward to working closely with her on issues affecting our city – from supporting our steel industry to highlighting the impact of police cuts in our communities, an issue which Ruth spoke passionately about during the by-election campaign.

Not only is it wonderful to have Ruth elected as a Newport neighbour, it's fantastic that I'm no longer the only woman ever elected to the House of Commons in Gwent.

Ruth is the 20th woman to be elected to the Commons in Wales - hopefully there will be many more to follow her in the years to come.

- Away from the rigours of by-elections and a number of parliamentary votes on Brexit, it’s been a pleasure to attend a number of local events in the constituency.

Caldicot Male Voice Choir’s 56th annual concert at Caldicot Leisure Centre was a wonderful evening of music. The choir were on great form as ever, as were guest singer Rhydian Jenkins and compere Dean Powell. Da iawn!

I also attended Newport’s first-ever Dementia Walk, which was a big success with over 350 people of all ages and abilities participating in a 3km walk through the city.

Thank you to all the organisations who supported the Dementia Walk – including Newport County AFC, Newport Live, Newport City Council and Dementia Friends – and all those who helped coordinate the event, with a special mention for Colin Faulkner, who has been a champion for disabled Newport County supporters for many years and now works for the club as Director of Equalities and Diversity.

Dementia directly or indirectly affects the lives of thousands of people in Newport and across Gwent, and it’s important that we continue to raise awareness.

- Last week the Newport East Labour Party said goodbye to Ron Morris - a stalwart of the party for over fifty years.

Ron was a well-known shopkeeper, much-loved councillor for Beechwood, and the UK Mayor of the Year.

He also played football for Crystal Palace, Gillingham and Gravesend.

He will be much missed.