CWMBRAN Stadium has regained its UK Athletics (UKA) competition licence – to the delight of its users.

As the Argus reported in February, the track lost its licence after UKA decided it fell below required safety levels.

It meant the famous track, which has been used by track and field greats like Linford Christie, Zola Budd and Lynn ‘the Leap’ Davies, was barred from hosting competitive athletics.

Following the decision UKA facilities and health and safety manager Michael Hunt said: “The UKA has an obligation to make sure track and field facilities reach a level that’s safe.

“Unfortunately at Cwmbran the track surface has fallen below that level.”

But just four months later the track is celebrating having its licence restored with the council carrying out the work for just under £5,000.

Iain Jones, chairman of local club Cwmbran Harriers who call the track home, said he was delighted.

“I’m overjoyed with the work that has been put into the stadium in order for it to bring in aspiring athletes.

“Since we got the licence back, there has been loads of interest. We have seen a 15% increase in athletes training and competing in the facility.

“There was a little confusion when the licence was withdrawn by the governing body which caused a lot of concern at the club,” he said.

“Athletes and parents thought losing the licence meant training would stop and they were understandably worried.

“The club have worked hand in hand with the council to get this resolved and due to the quick turnaround we’ve even managed to secure some competitive events we may have otherwise lost. Everyone in the club is chuffed to bits and it will give our athletes a boost ahead of the Welsh Championships this month.”

The wait won’t be long as Mr Jones confirmed an Under 15s Welsh athletics league will return to Cwmbran on August 18.

Torfaen Council Deputy Leader Cllr Lewis Jones, the executive member for leisure, added: “I’m delighted the track has had its competition licence re-instated.

“I’m thrilled that our local athletes are able to compete in events on their own track and I would like to congratulate everyone involved for making this happen.”