The ongoing wildfires across Wales are deeply concerning, and I want to thank the fire service and every organisation involved in keeping them contained and people safe.

In Cwmavon, we have seen a devastating mountain fire that has burned circa 250 hectares of vegetation and peat, much of which will never recover, the equivalent of over 460 football pitches. The effect of this fire on the commoners and graziers is that virtually all grazing on the mountain has been lost, presenting a very real issue of how livestock will now be fed.

I will be meeting with the Commons Management Group very soon to see how best to support them, and what lessons need to be learnt to stop this happening again.

These fires must not become the norm, and we must do everything possible to minimise the risk of them starting. People have a responsibility to take away their waste and be mindful of the areas they visit. These fires can begin from the smallest spark, with devastating consequences. I hope everyone takes extra care to keep our shared spaces safe.

There is plenty happening in Monmouthshire and Torfaen over the summer, including county shows, open gardens, and community events, and I encourage everyone to attend where possible. I, and the Conservatives, look forward to our usual shows, so come along for a cuppa and a chat if you’re on site.

One spectacle that is not welcome, however, is the completely unnecessary by election in Clacton, existing only to satisfy the ego of their leader. The losers are the electorate of Clacton, the UK taxpayer, and even the people of Wales, who have seen most of their Reform MSs travel up the M4 to campaign for their leader against a bin, rather than serve their constituents. If they simply wanted a day at the seaside, Wales could have provided that in abundance.

Even with the Senedd entering recess, my role as an MS for Sir Fynwy Torfaen continues, and my office remains fully open to help with any queries or concerns.

Looking back towards Cardiff, and the new Senedd, there is still bedding in needed with the new system and new members in Cardiff, and I hope this happens quickly so we can get on with our jobs in holding the Welsh Government to account effectively. The Conservatives remain firm the Senedd expansion was unnecessary, and the money used should have been re-directed elsewhere.

I look forward to returning in the autumn to continue pushing forward the change Wales needs.