Here's the latest Argus column by Newport City Council leader Cllr Debbie Wilcox

WE NOW have less than a month to go before the ABP Newport Wales Marathon takes place in the city.

On Sunday, May 5, not only will the runners be pounding the streets, they will also be hitting television screens around the world.

This will be another fantastic opportunity to showcase the city and all it has to offer.

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Following the huge success of the inaugural marathon last year, television highlights programmes will be shown on Channel 4, S4C, Eurosport and online.

Thousands of people will be descending on Newport on that day, both participants and spectators, and I am sure our visitors will receive a warm welcome.

As with all such events, there will necessarily be temporary disruption for some people. Road closures, transport and the general delivery of the event have all been reviewed and the organisers are doing everything they can to ensure people have the information they need ahead of the marathon.

I hope you will agree that the benefits to the city of hosting such fantastic events far outweigh any short-lived inconvenience.

As with last year’s amazing Tour of Britain stage finish in Newport, the marathon will now have a global profile.

The inaugural ABP Newport Wales Marathon was another highlight in 2018 that demonstrates the city’s ability to host vibrant major events.

Last year’s marathon was a great success and there was fabulous support. I would urge those not taking part to come along and cheer on the runners, whether they are elite athletes or taking part in the 10k event.

You can keep up-to-date with all the news about event on www.newportwalesmarathon.co.uk

Last week, the city was also in the spotlight for a very different reason.

The press descended on the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome of Wales for the Newport West by-election. It generated a lot of media interest because of the turbulent political times the country has recently been going through.

Once again, staff from the council, particularly the elections team, and Newport Live worked hard to make sure everything went smoothly.

The by-election was called following the sad death of Paul Flynn who served the constituency so brilliantly for many years.

I would like to congratulate Ruth Jones on becoming the Newport West MP and I look forward to working with her to ensure the city continues to thrive and prosper.