RESIDENTS in Monmouth shared their views when voting in this year’s Senedd election, with many highlighting the importance of using their vote.

Speaking to a first-time voter at a polling station in Monmouth it appeared that issues including transport and preserving Welsh history had been some of the reasons she felt it was important to head to the polls for last week’s Senedd election.

Lily Wallace, 19, said “It’s my first time voting so it’s a little bit emotional and a little bit scary, but I’m really happy to have made a difference.”

Speaking about the issues most important to her, she said: “Mainly it’s the history of Wales, that’s really big thing for me.

“Transport is something I would love to see improved. While I have now learnt to drive there’s not really any other option for getting around where I live.

“My sister has struggled a lot in her driving and she’s decided she’s not going to do it but because she isn’t driving, the lack of public transport makes life really tricky, so that’s definitely something I would like to see improved,” she said.

One other common theme among voters was the importance of participating in the process, in recognition of the fight for women’s voting rights. “It is my civil duty to vote for a start, as women fought for the vote,” said one resident.

Another added: “I would never not vote because I think it’s an absolute privilege to be able to have a free vote. I think it should be compulsory.”

For Monmouthshire residents, two key issues arose frequently - concerns about the NHS in Wales and local flooding following the severe aftermath of Storm Claudia last November.

“The recent flooding in November highlighted that the rivers need to be dealt with, so it doesn’t happen again.” said one resident said.