A LOCAL rock band will be helping to revive Newbridge Memorial Hall next month.

Local band Legacy are preparing to play a gig to raise the profile of the venue, affectionately known as the Memo.

The Friends of Newbridge committee have been busy fundraising as they attempt to restore the community venue to its former glory.

The Memorial Hall was once an important centre for amateur drama, music and dance. Even Tom Jones performed there in its heyday.

Now, the committee is backing the boys from Newbridge to bring in the crowds again.

Singer Steve Powell was enthusiastic. He said: "We want to raise the awareness of the hall and show that it is still being used. It is such a nice place and we cannot wait to play there."

The band play a variety of cover songs from the 60s to the 90s including hits by the Beatles, Elvis and Bryan Adams.

Since forming two-and-a- half years ago, this will be Legacy's first gig in Newbridge and they hope it won't be the last at the Memorial Hall.

Steve said: "The place has had troubles with funding recently and it is a shame because it hasn't been used in the way that it could be."

The Friends of Newbridge committee, set up eight months ago to raise funds, hope the band will spark a whole host of live entertainment at the venue.

Committee chairman Howard Stone said: "We have received much support and the campaign is going very well."

A team of expert surveyors, accountants and other professionals have been working with the committee to raise money. The committee hopes to reach its funding target by 2007, the centenary year of the Institute, part of the Memorial Hall.

Mr Stone said: "We want to raise the profile of the Memo.

"It is lovely to see it being used again as local residents can use the Memorial Hall for a variety of events.

"There is an aerobics class, a choir and a number of bands using the Memo once again. We are taking bookings for birthday parties, weddings and all kinds of entertainment and celebrations.

We want to see the Memo used, and not abused."

Legacy plays on April 17. Tickets are £5. Doors open 7pm.

And on April 30, Ricky Valance and support act The Midnight City Soul Band are booked. Tickets are £10. To book in advance, contact 01495 245 065.