A MAN wants to turn a derelict Newport church into a community gym - and needs to raise £100,000 in four weeks to do it.

Dave Sheppard, 37, of Welland Crescent, Bettws, plans to turn the United Reformed Church on the corner of Tone Close, Bettws, into a gym to help keep children off the streets.

But first he needs to raise money to buy the building.

He said he has given himself four weeks to raise the money before other bidders start to increase the price.

The United Reformed Church has outline planning permission for the site for four houses.

Mr Sheppard said he was given a boost when 1,000 people signed forms to say they were interested in the plans.

He said: "We need something to encourage children off the streets. There have been lots of things in the news about people being obese.

"The gym would encourage people to exercise and have fun.

"I would love to get the money for it and I know I have got a lot of backing from people."

Bettws Councillor Noel Trigg said: "It would be a wonderful thing for Bettws.

"We desperately need something for the children here, we have got nothing for the youngsters.

"It is fantastic Dave Sheppard has had tremendous support."

The gym would offer boxing lessons and a gymnastic club wants to hold some of their sessions there.

William Graham, of chartered surveyors William Graham and Co, said:

"The trustees of the church might be sympathetic to Mr Sheppard's aims, but they are charged by law to get the best price."

Father of six Mr Sheppard said the idea came to him when it was feared Millbrook School would close, and children in the boxing club asked what was going to happen to them.

"I promised I would get them another building," he said.

Mr Sheppard, who has lived in Bettws all his life, said he was approached by a company who have offered him bricks and sand free of charge for the transformation of the building.

He has also been offered grants, but they will take a few months to come through.

He said the gym would be open to everyone, and he is keen to encourage the older generation as well.

If anyone can help, contact Mr Sheppard on 07968 329 787.