New Assembly Member Delyth Jewell has paid tribute to her predecessor, Steffan Lewis, in her maiden speech in the Senedd.
Ms Jewell was sworn in as an Assembly Member following the death of Mr Lewis from Bowel cancer.
She said: “I have a responsibility to the people of South Wales East to do the best I can, as well as to my party and group.
“And I have a responsibility to Steffan. I do not bear it lightly. I know I must give all I have, for him.”
Ms Jewell added: “I know that many of my fellow AMs will think of me as being in Steffan’s place and I don’t mind that. In fact, I will consider it an honour.
“For although I am this chamber’s newest member, in Steffan’s place, I’ve been given the best seat in the house.
“I am in Steffan’s place, but I will never replace him. I hope you will let me share it with him.”
Ms Jewell became Plaid Cymru’s regional AM for South Wales East on Friday, February 8 after taking her oath.
She was born in Caerphilly and grew up in Ystrad Mynach, attending Ysgol Bro Allta and Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni.
The new Plaid AM has previously worked as a parliamentary researcher in Westminster and has also worked with Citizens Advice and charity ActionAid.
Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price said: “Whilst joining us under incredibly tragic circumstances, Delyth will be an asset to the Plaid Cymru group.”