MONMOUTH AM Nick Ramsay has given his backing to Gwent Music Support Service which is under threat of having its funding axed by Newport Council.

The council is proposing to end its contribution of £292,000 a year to the service, also known as GMSS, saying it has to concentrate on frontline education.

Gwent Music Service has been in existence for half a century and has provided valuable musical opportunities to thousands of children in Monmouthshire and Gwent.

Newport council is proposing a 100 per cent cut in funding, which would leave Monmouthshire and Torfaen council's having to pick up a disproportionate bill. The council's consultation on the proposal ends today.

Mr Ramsay said: "Gwent Music Service is a staple feature of the local music scene. Many children have benefited from its support over very many years."

"Since 1996 there has been an arrangement between the local authorities in the old Gwent area that they would continue to fund this valuable service."

"Monmouthshire County Council are good enough to fund over £230,000 of the overall cost, proportionally higher than the other authorities. However, it is clearly impossible for them to pick up the tab for other authorities that are now considering dropping out."

He added: "I am urging Newport City Council to reconsider this damaging decision and to remain part of the cross county agreement."

Mr Ramsay said he will contact the Welsh Assembly's Culture Minister and the Arts Council to express his concern and to ask if there are any alternative sources of funding available if the cut is made.