THE Minister for regeneration visited Blaenavon as part of the Support Your High Street campaign today.

Communities and Tackling Poverty Minister, Lesley Griffiths, was on Blaenavon's high street  to meet shoppers and local businesses.

The event is one of many taking place across Wales as part of the campaign aimed at showcasing the range of shops and services available on Wales’ high streets.

The minister visited local businesses including Coffi 1860, a café opened recently by local part-time midwife, Amie Symes.

The café has created seven new jobs and is looking to take on an apprentice.

Ms Griffiths also visited the award-winning Blaenafon Cheddar Company.

Local school children from Blaenavon Heritage VC School displayed the posters they have designed for the campaigns poster competition.

The competition winner, India Smith, met the minister and speak to her about why she loves her local high street.

Ms Griffiths said: “High Street Week has been a great success so far.

“I am looking forward to meeting local businesses in Blaenavon this week and showing my support for High Street Week.”

The deputy leader of Torfaen council, Cllr Lewis Jones, said: ““The investment we have made, particularly in the centres of Blaenavon and Pontypool has created new spaces and places for independent retailers and businesses to develop and thrive.

"This is ensuring our high streets continue to offer local people a unique experience at the heart of their communities that they can be proud of.”