THE director and chairman of Tower Colliery will be in Newbridge tonight to support the campaign to save the Memo.

Tyrone O'Sullivan led the successful campaign to buy-out the Hirwaun pit - and helped turn it into a profit-making business over the last ten years.

The Newbridge Memo is taking part in the BBC's Restoration programme, and the Argus is the official newspaper of the Memo's bid to win the £3 million prize.

The vote for the Welsh round and a place in the national finals will take place next week.

Mr O'Sullivan will be speaking at the Memo tonight and will be stressing the importance of regenerating such halls across the Valleys.

He will also be urging the community not to become disheartened at the size of the project, even if they are not successful in winning the Restoration prize.

Mr O'Sullivan, who is 58, was born and bred in Cwmaman, and has been involved with a similar project in the village.

"I have seen the enormous benefits it has brought to the whole community," he said. "I am very pleased and proud to lend my support to the Friends of Newbridge Memo to restore this magnificent building."

He said the institute in his home town had also fallen into a state of disrepair and five years ago nearly closed.

But a £3.5 million Euro grant saved it - and since the work was completed two years ago the hall is now a vibrant meeting place for the whole community. Mr O'Sullivan added that the work is necessary for the sake of youngsters in Valleys villages.

"There is no quick fix, but you have to put as much energy into it as possible. If there is nothing for the children, we shouldn't be blaming them," he said.

l For tickets for tonight's talk, telephone the Memo on 01495 243252.