FIRST MINSTER Mark Drakeford has paid tribute to a former Assembly Member (AM), who he says was 'a real voice' for North Wales, following her death.

Mr Drakeford was speaking about former Labour AM Denise Idris Jones, who died aged 69 at her home in Ruthin recently.

He said: “I‘m saddened to hear the news of Denise’s passing. Denise was a real voice for North Wales, for education and the Welsh language during her time at the Senedd. She brought her experience as a teacher to her work as the elected member for Conwy.

“My thoughts, and the thoughts of the Welsh Labour movement, are with her family at this time.”

Mrs Jones had been a French teacher at Ysgol y Grango in her hometown of Rhosllanerchrugog, and, in her political role, had represented the constituency of Conwy as a Labour Assembly Member.

Her husband John was a well-known author and lecturer. She leaves behind her husband sons; James and William and grandchildren; Millie, Billy, Poppy and Connie.