WAR-ERA sounds filled the air of a Newport community centre on the weekend, where the sweet serenades of classics from Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire delighted older residents of the area.

There was more than a hint of nostalgia about Maesglas Community Centre on Sunday, which put on a free event aiming to engage those living in the Communities First Newport west cluster.

Abounding with patriotic bunting, tea, cake, vintage polka-dot dresses and numerous swing hits, it felt as if the spirit of bomb-hit 1940s Britain had been re-awoken.

Advertised as a 1940s tea dance, the event drew in locals from Maesglas, Duffryn and the Gaer, and the crooning sounds of a local singer David Mclean entertained those in attendance throughout the afternoon.

Communities First Prosperous Co-ordinator Carolyn Beddis, said organisers wanted it to be a “fun as possible”.

“The real aim is to consult with residents about what sort of things they want to see in the community and here at the centre,” she added.

Regular centre user, Mary Edwards, from the Gaer, took to the microphone at the end of the day, to thank the centre staff.

“They all do a marvellous job and we are very grateful,” she said. “We have all enjoyed ourselves tremendously.”

Applause and singing broke out when she provided her own musical rendition at the end.

Centre favourite Joan Davis, 80, said the centre was invaluable for the elderly in terms of socialising.

“These events keep us young,” she said. “I think the centre deserves more support from the community because it really is fantastic.”

Project-support worker at the centre and dance organiser Katrice Perrin thanked all those who attended and volunteered their time.