YNYS Môn MP Albert Owen has announced that he will be stepping down from the position at the next general election.

Mr Owen, who has served the role for the last 18 years, has made the decision in order to "spend more quality time with family".

The Labour MP from Holyhead has consistently raised concerns over the effects of a no-deal Brexit on the area, particularly after the island narrowly voted to leave the European Union in the 2016 Referendum.

In 2017, Mr Owen made a commitment to serve full term as Anglesey's MP , intended until 2022, and says will "honour that pledge".

"It is, however, my intention to stand down at the next general election," he added.

"If an early election is called, either this year or in 2020, this will require a commitment to remain as MP for the following five years, taking the term well beyond 2022. I honestly cannot commit to this.

"This is not an easy decision for me to take. It has been a great honour to be elected the Ynys Mon Labour MP at five parliamentary elections, and a privilege to serve my home constituency."

The 60-year-old is a father of two who attended Holyhead County Comprehensive School before joining the Merchant Navy in 1976. He then went on to gain a degree in politics from the University of York in 1997.

Speaking on his decision to step down, he said: "Being an MP is an intense full-time job. My decision not to seek re-election is for personal reasons, I simply want to do other things and spend more quality time with my family.

Since 2001, I have worked with an excellent team of dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters to provide a first class service to the public from both the Constituency and Westminster, and whether the election is in three months or three years, this will continue.

"Finally, I want to thank the people of Ynys Môn for the kindness shown to me over many years.”