In 1915, Newport workhouse, known locally as Woolaston House, was taken over by the War Office. It became part of the Third Western General Hospital, which today is St Woolos Hospital. Earlier this month, a commemorative plaque was unveiled outside St Woolos by the Gwent branch of the Western Front Association. The plaque was created by the talented Newport designer Danielle Mayer. As we celebrate the seventieth anniversary of the NHS, it's another opportunity to show our gratitude to previous generations of doctors, nurses and hospital staff. 

Special mention must be given to the women who worked in the hospital during the war years. They include the matron Katherine Gilchrist Wilson, members of the Territorial Force Nursing Service and voluntary aid detachments from the Red Cross and St John's. The running of the hospital not only required medical staff, but also general service VADs like storekeepers, cooks and cleaners, all of whom were vital.

Our community comes together in difficult times. Trains of wounded men were met at Newport station by local volunteers, giving them tea, cigarettes and fruit. I'm proud that, 100 years ago, the people of Newport came together to look after each other during one of the darkest periods in our recent history. While we must always remember those who fought and died in the great war, we must also remember those who saved lives.