People in Blaenau Gwent have described the huge need for a long-awaited reopening of a direct train service to Newport.
The vital train service from Ebbw Vale to Newport, which ceased operating in 1962, will see major work start next month to lay more tracks to allow for a new hourly connection to Newport.
The work that is being carried out by Network Rail will include the creation of two new platforms at the stops in Llanhilleth and Newbridge making them fully accessible, the managing of vegetation on a 13 mile stretch of the line, as well as the laying of new tracks .
The development has been funded by Blaenau Gwent Council and supported by the Welsh Government with a £70 million investment that will allow for more services to be added, including what has been described as a much-needed connection to Newport.
