THE BLAENAU Gwent rail link has been delivered for local people as the first train left for Cardiff this morning.
Labour council leader Hedley McCarthy said he was "ecstatic" about the news and said it was a signal that Labour was delivering for the local area.
HEDLEY McCARTHY said:
"This is excellent news, I am ecstatic. This is a major plank in our regeneration plans for Blaenau Gwent.
"This is an historic occasion after four decades without rail passenger transport and I am proud that we are the first local authority to deliver such a project.
"It brings the jobs from the vibrant economy of Cardiff much closer to the people of Blaenau Gwent and at the same time it brings affordable housing nearer to young professionals who may not be able to afford Cardiff
"This is a great example of the Labour partnership between the local council, Assembly Government and Government at Westminster delivering for local people."
Islwyn AM IRENE JAMES said:
"I have been waiting for this day and now it has arrived I can’t tell you how delighted I am. The people of the valleys deserve this line and I am so proud that Labour and the Assembly are delivering it for them"