A POLITICIAN serving towns on the Herefordshire border said she will stand down at next year's election in Wales.

Welsh Liberal Democrat Member of the Senedd (MS) Kirsty Williams has said after careful consideration she would stand down at the 2021 Senedd election.

She has served as the member for Brecon and Radnorshire since 1999, served as Chair of the Health Committee in the first Assembly from 1999-2003, as leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats from 2008 until 2016 and has been the Welsh Government's Education Minister since her appointment in 2016.

"After a great deal of thought and reflection, I have decided not to stand as a candidate at the next Senedd election," Kirsty Williams said.

"There is, of course, sadness in making this decision, but also with a sense of achievement and pride.

"I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and I remain committed to my role in Brecon and Radnorshire and look forward to continuing to campaign with my successor to ensure Brecon and Radnorshire returns a Welsh Liberal Democrat voice."

The Brecon and Radnorshire constituency covers areas on the Herefordshire-Powys border, including Hay-on-Wye, Presteigne and Knighton.

She has been described as a "champion" for the area.

Paula Yates, President of the Welsh Liberal Democrats added: "Kirsty has been an exceptional constituency champion for Brecon and Radnorshire for the last 21 years.

"There isn't a street or village where someone doesn't know someone who's been personally helped by Kirsty over the years."