Peter Law travelled to Westminster with wife Trish on Wednesday

Peter Law overturned a Labour majority of 19,000 in Blaenau Gwent to win by 9,121 in last week's election.

Mr Law, who is also the constituency's AM, left Labour in protest at the party's use of all-women shortlists to pick its candidate.

He said he was sure that being at Westminster would be "a very interesting and pleasant experience".

"I am absorbing it all and enjoying it all," he said.

"For me personally, it is a very great and very humbling experience.

I am hoping to get an office, but it may be about six weeks if I am lucky Brian Law MP

"I have been in public life in Blaenau Gwent for 35 years and to become Member of Parliament with the franchise of the people is something I could never have foreseen was going to happen."

Speaking at the doors of the House of Commons, he said it was "quite awesome" to be heading inside for his first day.

"I have travelled through here many years in other capacities, but I have never actually seen and been around as a member," he said.

"Now here I am as a member, I have access to all parts of this place.

"I suppose one has to say it is a nervous thing to be here, but also a very proud time ... and very positive as well.

"I know when I am here I have got the people of Blaenau Gwent with me."

Peter Law defeated the Labour candidate Maggie Jones

Mr Law said he was pleasantly surprised by the reaction of his fellow MPs, following his recent departure from the Labour party.

He said: "Some of them have come over and have shaken my hands and some have said, 'Look we didn't agree with what you did, but congratulations'.

"I was surprised, but the fact is I was refreshed by that and I did appreciate that."

Mr Law almost had to withdraw from the electoral contest a month ago when he discovered he had a brain tumour.

He underwent surgery, but decided to press ahead and stand.

Mr Law said he was confident his health would not prevent him doing both jobs as MP and AM.

And he said his independent status should not stand in his way either.

"I think the Speaker would want to make sure that, as an independent, I would have access to anything party members have to be able to look after my constituents in a matter of fair play," he said.

"I am hoping to get an office, but it may be about six weeks if I am lucky."