Local newspapers are a treasured part of our heritage, reflecting a mix of local news, views and sports coverage. They are a place where many excellent journalists work and become part of their communities. The South Wales Guardian is no exception.

The Guardian writes without fear or favour. Politicians of all colours have had to live with unfriendly headlines over the years, but we wouldn't expect anything less from the journalists we have come to trust so much. I know my political opponents would agree that the Guardian is a respected and treasured part of political debate in Carmarthenshire.

One of my favourite stories about the South Wales Guardian comes from the world famous Guardian (UK) rugby correspondent Frank Keating and the day he attended the funeral of one of Wales' greatest sons, Carwyn James. Frank reached the service late at Tabernacle Chapel, Cefneithin. The Chapel was packed to the rafters with hundreds of mourners outside. Frank approached one of the bearers and explained he was from the Guardian whereby he was ushered to the front of the chapel with his patron informing the confused mourners in the Chapel 'this man is important, he's from the Ammanford Guardian'. That story says it all.

The paper has grown from strength to strength and, under the excellent stewardship of Editor Steve Adams, I have every confidence the paper will continue to grow and remain an integral part of life in Carmarthenshire for another sixty years.

Carmarthen East and Dinefwr MP Jonathan Edwards, October 2015