NEWPORT Memorial Hall's light and airy new community room opened its doors to the public for the first time last week.

The room, below the main hall, has been renovated as part of the hall's Medieval Kiln Project. It has under-floor heating and space for 70 to sit and sliding glass doors which open out onto a large terrace and garden.

It is ideal for classes and functions. The first class to happen in the new room was Julie Dru yoga last Thursday.

This National Lottery Funded project has now finished the first phase and is busy working towards the completion of an inspiring heritage attraction of wha has been described as the best preserved medieval pottery kiln in the UK.

"We are grateful to the Builders Property Refurb and architects Julian Bishop and Derek Minchin for their excellent work," said chairman of the Hall, Reg Atkinson.

"We look forward to welcoming schools to use this new room when the kiln is open to the public.

"Thank you to all the National Lottery Players who have helped contribute to this great new community facility."

Work to complete the kiln attraction is well under way and there are plans to unveil its story in July this year alongside a programme of events, festivals and activities to accompany the kiln opening.

The medieval pottery kiln project is funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, Cadw, Welsh Government's Leadership Fund, Sustainable Development Fund Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park , The Foyle Foundation, Milford Haven Port Authority and Refreshing North Pembrokeshire.

For more information, find Newport Memorial Hall on Facebook or visit www.newportmemorialhall.co.uk.