THE campaign to revive Newbridge Memo Hall has received its biggest boost yet with the news that it will feature on the BBC's Restoration programme.

It means that the historic venue will be in contention for a £3 million grant to restore it to its former glory.

The BBC Two programme, presented by Griff Rhys Jones, has chosen 21 buildings from around the UK for their second summer series.

It will highlight the hidden secrets of all the historic buildings - last year Manchester's Victoria Baths won and received over £3 million to restore it.

Chairman of the Friends of Newbridge Memo group Howard Stone said everyone was "over the moon" that the venue had been picked as one of only three in Wales.

"We are all absolutely thrilled," he said. "It is exactly a year since we started this campaign but this has come completely out of the blue.

Whatever the outcome, it will provide a big boost in terms of the publicity it will bring."

Opened in 1907, Celynen Collieries Institute and Memorial Hall once formed the cornerstone of the community as a dance, drama and cinema venue.

More than 1,200 signatures have been gained from local people on a petition to 'save the 'Stute and Memo'.

Friends of Newbridge Memo have been staging events to raise funds to revive the venue. On Friday night, the venue played host to Ricky Valance with Newbridge band The Midnight City Soul supporting free of charge.

Other local bands have also played there and An Evening of Clairvoyance with Susan Clements raised over £1,000.

Howard's son Jon even ran both the Paris and London Marathons to raise funds with Richard Moreau also running in France - their efforts raised £700.

Modern Homes in Newbridge and other traders have helped out with paint and materials for re-decorating.

Mr Stone said: "We are pleased with the way the campaign is going and everyone is helping out."

Islwyn MP Don Touhig said: "I have supported the community's effort to regenerate the Memo right from the start. I am delighted that Restoration will bring the Memo to a wider audience."

Local people have been urged to vote for the venue when the programme is broadcast in July.

The Memo Hall can be booked for private functions.

Anyone who has ideas for events should ring Howard on 01495 243691.