FUNDRAISERS continue at the Newbridge Memo to help with the renovation appeal.

The first phase of the £5.6 million project was completed earlier this year- when a new library, office space and meeting halls were unveiled.

Manic Street Preacher James Dean Bradfield and chairman of the restoration appeal Howard Stone were among the dignitaries. Bradfield revealed he used to work behind the bar at the Memo, and had fond memories of his time there. He also called it his "education in music" thanks to the blues bands he saw there.

Work will continue for the rest of this year on restoring the old ballroom and cinema and giving them a new lease of life.

The first batch of events in the new meeting rooms have been announced and they kick off on Friday, August 30 with Michael Buble tribute act Lee Jay performing.

Then on Saturday, September 14, there will be a Caribbean night with performers including Wahda Placide from St Lucia.

There will also be disco sounds and music from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s on September 28, 7pm, with Studio 54 performing.

With the newly-refurbished Institute part only opening its doors officially last month, the events will be the first opportunity for many people to view the completed building.

Tickets are available from the Memo, Newbridge Trading on High Street or Sainsbury’s, Pontllanfraith. Visit www.newbridge-memo.co.uk for more details.