James Evans has paid tribute to the contribution that Welsh soldiers made during the D-Day landings 80 years ago.

The Brecon and Radnorshire MS said at the Senedd that on June 6, 1944, the largest amphibious invasion in military history took place.

He said Welsh servicemen and women played a critical role in the liberation of Europe from Nazi tyranny.

Mr Evans said: “Over 150,000 troops, including countless Welsh servicemen, landed on the beaches of Normandy in operations codenamed Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword.

“These brave soldiers faced heavily-fortified German positions, and tragically over 10,000 Allied casualties were sustained on D-day alone.

“The bravery of Welsh soldiers on the Normandy beaches, like the 2nd Battalion, the Welsh Borderers, was absolutely remarkable.

”Mr Evans said Wales itself became a training ground for the Allies.

He told MSs: “Locations like Mumbles served as a rehearsal site for US troops, simulating everything from unloading ships under fire, treating casualties and handling prisoners.

“Mock hospitals were constructed, like the one near Carmarthen, on today's site of the Glangwili General Hospital. Wales's dedication to the war effort was profound.

“That unwavering spirit and sacrifice both on the beaches and in the factories that supplied the invasion stand as a testament to the critical role in securing victory on D-Day, the ultimate liberation of Europe and the freedom that we all enjoy today.”