A new exhibition at the Riverfront theatre is offering a different side of Newport’s history from the man who brought punk music to south Wales.

Pop goes the show is a collection of posters, tickets and other memorabilia from Newport band promoter, Jonny Perkins.

Mr Perkins, 64, started promoting in the 1960s bringing bands to clubs in Newport. His exhibition is the story of the changing music scene and landscape of Newport and its clubs.

One gig was in the city’s first ever discoteque in Malpas road, called Platform One. Another was in St. Woolos Church hall, which no longer exists.

Mr Perkins, who still promotes today, said: “I started off being a DJ in a youth club in Maesglas. I managed bands then I started promoting different local acts.”

Particularly memorable gigs included one in the Dolman theatre where a 16-year-old Mike Oldfied was the guitarist for Kevin Ayers and his band The Whole World.

“It was a different time. Newport used to be hub for all of this,” Mr Perkins said.

“There’s a still alot of talent around. There is the potential for it to happen again.”

Mr Perkins, who now lives in the Gaer Newport, went on to promote The Jam, Generation X and the Stranglers and can even name The Clash’s Joe Strummer as a friend.

The music lover is showing no sign of retiring soon. He said: “I can’t help myself. Music is my life.”

The exhibition is on the mezzanine level of the riverfront until 14 September. Mr Perkins will be offering a Q&A session daily (Mon-Sat) between 1-2pm.