GWENT'S first woman MP has promised to work as hard as she can. Jess Morden made history in the area when she was elected to the Newport East seat with a 6,838 majority.

Although the 36-year-old has been involved in politics for many years and was former general secretary of the Welsh Labour Party, it was only recently that she decided to join the front line.

"I have been a party member for about 15 years and I've always been a back room girl but then the Newport East seat came up, in the area where I grew up."

She was included in an impressive all-woman shortlist - which did not cause the same controversy in Newport that it did in Blaenau Gwent - and was selected to succeed Alan Howarth earlier this year.

Speaking to the Argus after just two hours sleep, Ms Morden said: "I'm really pleased I was elected."

She said she had enjoyed canvassing.

"I love elections and I've loved every minute of it. The people were very welcoming in Newport East."

Ms Morden agreed becoming Gwent's first female MP had been momentous. "I would have loved Maggie Jones to have got in as well in Blaenau Gwent so it was bitter sweet but I'm obviously delighted to be the first ever in the area.

"All the parties have had problems with getting more women MPs and the Labour Party have tried to do something about it, however controversial that is.

"I'm very accessible and approachable and will work as hard as I can."

Ms Morden grew up in Cwmbran where her parents still live. Her retired dad Mick, a former magistrate, was principal of Pontypool College while her mum Margaret used to work at Usk Prison.

Her brother Daniel is a well-known local storyteller and other brother Matthew is in further education in Carmarthen.

Ms Morden attended Croesyceiliog comprehensive school where head teacher Helene Mansfield remembered her former pupil.

"She was a good student. She was always fully involved in school life and quite a lively person - you would expect that from someone who goes into politics."

Ms Morden lives in Cardiff but intends to move to Newport.