A FIRM that is developing a revolutionary outdoor exploration device that will change the face of Gwent's biggest tourist attractions has relocated from Bristol to Gwent.

The team at Node are now working on the latest version of their gadget at their new Usk HQ thanks to a cash boost from Finance Wales Investments Ltd which enabled the move.

Node designs and creates interactive mobile media and the team hopes its latest product will improve the tourist experience at attractions such as Big Pit, Newport Museum and the many castles and country parks Gwent has to offer.

Rather than a headset providing the visitor with information on what they are seeing based on them taking a defined route around the attraction, the Node Explorer uses location sensors meaning visitors can roam around freely at their will.

Node founders Tom Brammar and Will Wellesley Davies developed the outdoor exploration device and following initial trials, early indications have proved it could be a winner.

The finance was secured with the guidance and help from top 20 accountants Saffery Champness and national firm of solicitors Laytons and the team at Node will now embark on rolling out version three of the device from its new Usk base.

In addition, the new finance will help the team grow the business outside of the UK, develop further links with the National Trust and work towards developing pro-ducts in the mobile market.

Commenting on the investment and move to Usk, Mr Brammar said: "Understand-ably, we're delighted to receive such backing. The location in Usk is perfect for our needs as it gives us the privacy and the space to test and develop new products."

And on the Node Explorer, he said: "It's a pocket-sized gadget which is light to carry, waterproof, shock resistant and has enough power to last all day.

"Unlike conventional audio tour guides that have to follow a set path, the Node Explorer allows users to wander freely around the grounds they are in.

"The user then receives a commentary via a headphone set dependant on where they are standing and what they are looking at, making the whole visiting experience far more interactive and interesting."

David Lemon, partner at Saffery Champness said: "There are huge merits to the system from both an informative and historical point of view and it's great news that the team has now received such a significant injection of capital.

"This will undoubtedly help the Node team develop their impressive ideas."