Work to conserve Newport's medieval pottery kiln is now beginning, after the project received £170,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) last year.

The only remaining intact medieval pottery kiln in Britain was found by builders laying the foundations for Newport Memorial Hall in 1921.

The kiln, is still largely intact and located under the stage area of the Hall.

The kiln project seeks to create an exciting visitor attraction featuring information on the kiln as well as the history of the area which will open this summer. There will then follow a year- long programme of events, festivals and activities.

"I am very grateful to the funders and the amazing volunteers who have already put in many hours of research into this fascinating and rare communal artefact that we hope will be a pivot to greater understanding of our heritage," said project manager Siobhan Ashe.

Richard Bellamy, head of HLF in Wales, added:

"Uncovering where, and how, our ancestors lived helps communities to understand their own history and identity.

"Thanks to National Lottery players, HLF is able to support projects such as Conservation, interpretation and community engagement of Newport's Medieval Pottery Kiln that will provide access to a once hidden significant historic monument."

Other funders who have enabled the project to go ahead include Leadership Fund, Cadw, Sustainable Development Fund, The Foyle Foundation, Milford Haven Port Authority and Refreshing North Pembrokeshire.

To find out more about developments and finds at the site, you can follow the kiln's progress on facebook https://www.facebook.com/medievalpotterykilnnewport