THEY may have just missed out on the top prize, but the Friends of Newbridge Memo gathered last night to celebrate their remarkable performance on BBC2's Restoration programme.

A special 'thank you' party was staged at the Memo last night, and at the packed hall it was impossible to find anyone who believed the campaign had been anything but a success.

The Argus was the official newspaper for the Memo which won the Welsh Restoration before narrowly losing out in the UK final to the Old Grammar School and Saracen's Head in Birmingham.

Howard Stone, (pictured) chairman of the Friends of the Newbridge Memo, said: "We didn't lose, we just came away without the money. The community spirit that came from the show and the Argus campaign couldn't have been bought with any amount of cash.

"Before there were Newbridge residents who didn't know the Memo existed. Now we have supporters all over the UK."

Don Touhig, MP for Islwyn, sent a personal message to the Friends, saying: "The hearts and minds of thousands have been captured by the proud solidarity of the community which built the Memo.

"Although we didn't win we have put the Memo back where it belongs - a living symbol of the pride at the heart of this community."

As the Second Wind Blues Band warmed up, guitarist Ian Baker said: "We have seen it on the telly and this place is worth saving."

The band and the A2Z Disco both performed for free. Sisters Betty Kedward and Mary Newell, from Red- bridge, both held warm memories of their night in London supporting the Memo at the final.

Mrs Newell, 66, said: "I would have paid £100 to experience what we did in London. It was fantastic.

"We were so elated we couldn't unwind until 3.30am. We felt so lucky and proud. This has made our village a family."