A CHEPSTOW councillor who survived the tsunami in South-East Asia has urged people to support aid agencies by giving to a national disaster appeal.

Armand Watts says he was moved by the goodwill of Thai people in the aftermath of the disaster and has urged those back home in Britain to give everything they can to help.

Councillor Watts, who represents Thornwell on Monmouthshire county council, was holidaying in Krabi, Thailand, with partner Katie Pingree, a deputy headmistress, when disaster struck.

Their five star Maritime Park and Spa resort is now being used as a hospital.

Councillor Watts, 37, said: "This is not just an appeal. This is beyond comprehension - their infrastructure has gone, their livelihood has gone and some have lost members of their own family. We are the lucky ones."

Across Gwent people are already digging deep to raise funds for those left devastated by the Asian Tsunami.

l A treasure trove of sporting memorabilia has been put together by a Newport pub to raise cash for tsunami victims.

Regulars at The Handpost, on Bassaleg Road, have pledged a snooker cue signed by star Mark Williams, a rugby ball signed by the Llanelli Scarlets and a photo of boxing legend Leo Spinks.

The charity auction to be held on Friday at 8.30pm will supplement over 700 already raised by the pub.

l A concert in aid of the Tsunami Disaster Relief Fund will be held at the Newbridge Memorial Hall on January 7.

Originally a benefit concert to aid the restoration of the Memorial Hall, organisers Islwyn Acoustic Guitar Club and the Friends of Newbridge Memo have jointly decided to donate the proceeds of the concert to the disaster relief fund.

The event starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are 5 and will be available on the door or by calling 01495 243252.

l A charity golf tournament in aid of the Tsunami appeal will be held at the St Pierre Golf Club, Chepstow on January 12.

Teams of four can enter for 200, the entry fee includes meals and prizes. For more information on how to take part contact 0791633 0848 or 079 7140 4310 or 01291 635 205.

l The cast of Dick Whittington at the Dolman Theatre in Newport have been collecting for the disaster appeal during the show intervals.

l The family of a Gwent man who died last week have asked for donations to be made to the disaster fund in his memory instead of flowers.