I know I have been banging on about the new bridge, that has been talked about by locals and Councillors alike, for years.

A great coming together has happened, we still have to choose, either plan A or plan B, but we are assured that work will commence within the next twelve Months. Big pat on the back for the Councillors, pressure has at last worked.

This week Monmouthshire County Council took the first steps towards the building of the £4 million bridge, to replace the ancient and historic Monnow Bridge, which has spanned the river for centuries. The final decision, hopefully, will be made in April.

Monmouth has an impressive pool of local talent and many opportunities to attend public performances, so said our local M.P. Huw Edwards.

Before Christmas the Merlin Music Society hosted the national Symphony Orchestra of Wales and Welsh National Opera. There was a large audience in the hall of Monmouth Boys School, which went home having heard wonderful melodies of this favourite opera.

Attracting an Internationally renowned symphony Orchestra and Opera singers of this calibre is an immense achievement for a town the size of Monmouth.

This year's pantomime by Off Centre Theatre was Robinson Crusoe. It was incredible, outrageous, amusing, risqué and very entertaining. The acting, music and choreography were so much more than anyone would have expected.

Monmouth Comprehensive School's performance of the Lion King was another unbelievable performance. Over 150 pupils, mainly but not entirely girls, from throughout the school gave a breathtaking performance of the Disney classic. The school has talented staff, to choreograph and train so many pupils who so evidently enjoyed doing such energetic and vibrant performances, which were so enjoyed by audiences on the three evenings.

Having such an abundance of talent in the town, it has been well recognised by local groups that what Monmouth needs is a purpose built performing arts centre, to host local productions and also events which will attract audiences to see nationally known artists.

After the Bridge!!
See you soon.