In my 90-second statement, I want to pay tribute to Cath Pendleton of Troed-y-rhiw in Merthyr Tydfil, referred to this week on BBC Wales as the Merthyr mermaid. This Senedd today records that Cath Pendleton was the first woman ever to swim a mile in the frozen waters of Antartica, an amazing personal achievement, an achievement of note in my constituency of Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney, and now also an achievement on record for Wales. 

For those who followed the dramatic story on television, you may, like me, have asked the question: why? But we heard Cath talk about her life, her service in the forces, the challenges that she and her family have faced, and then how she enjoyed the mental and physical battles of such extreme swimming. It was incredible to follow. It's an outstanding example of how individuals in setting personal goals, and by having the right people and support around them, can achieve remarkable records. Can I say that I was mighty relieved that the killer whales only showed a passing interest in the inflatable boat that took Cath into those deep frozen waters? 

So, on behalf of this Senedd, our Welsh Parliament, I say congratulations to our Merthyr mermaid, Cath Pendleton. You helped brighten our year and made us all feel a lot better about life. We are very proud of you.