FOURTEEN Locks Canal Centre welcomed its 50,000th visitor this year - topping last year’s numbers by more than 3,000 visitors before the year is out.

Don and Mollie Russell, who are both in their 80s, were presented with a bottle of bubbly and a box of chocolates to celebrate the occasion during their record-breaking visit on Mondayl.

The pair, who live near the Rogerstone centre are regular visitors to the centre, making trips around twice a week.

Mr Russell said: “We think they do a wonderful job there. We are very fond of canal walking and have been for a number of years and the 14 Locks Canal cafe after a walk helps you relax.”

Centre manager Phil Hughes, said it was a great achievement for the centre, which is managed by Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Trust, having consistently increased its visitor numbers from 35,060 in its first year and 46,480 in its second year.

He said: “It’s just great, the more people that come, the more we can promote the restoration and work with the community.

“All the staff have tried really hard to make everyone welcome. It’s hard work but it’s enjoyable.”

The centre opened on May 23, 2008, when it was handed over by Newport city council to the trustees.

It has community meeting rooms, a tea room run, is used by members of the community and local schools and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Working with Newport council the Trust has secured many grants to pay for the restoration of ten locks since 2000.

The canal towing path alongside the locks reopened two years ago to allow visitors to see the transformation that has already taken place and more locks are expected to be restored by 2015.