A CANADIAN mum-of-five has spoken of her love of Pontypool Museum, and said “there is nothing like it where I am from”.

Museum members Shannon Cox, who lives in Pontypool but is originally from Vancouver, says there is so much on offer at the history site, which “represents the very best of Pontypool”.

Pontypool Museum is facing a fight to ensure its survival, following a 20 per cent cut in its core funding fromTorfaen council.

Ms Cox said it would leave a “huge hole” if it were to close.

“It is such a vibrant social place,” she said. “It’s certainly not a dusty and ancient building like most people see museums.

“People just have to take the time to look.”

She called the industrial heritage of the area “fascinating” and said her children, who are also all members, regularly took part in various workshops and art classes held there.

They have even had birthday parties at the vintage tea room inside.

“The kids like the staff who are extremely friendly and helpful, and they love the music room. It’s not like this in Canada.

“I worry that it will be a case of people not realising what they have until it’s too late with the museum.”

The museum has set a target of 1,000 new members to help make up the £19,000 cash shortfall. A number of fundraising events and raffles have also been arranged.

The Argus' sister paper the Free Press is campaigning on its behalf to give it a fighting chance.

Membership fees are £15 per year or £20 for a family. Business, institution or club fees cost £60. Gift aiding is available and gives the trust an extra 25p from the government for every £1 donated.

Membership benefits include free entry to all exhibitions, ten per cent off selected books and gifts in the museum shop, exclusive invitations to special events and exhibitions, newsletters and updates featuring upcoming attractions and trust news, and voting rights at the trust AGM to appoint new trustees.

Corporate members receive promotion in newsletters, on social media and on the website.

For more information call into the museum, call 01495 752036 or send an email to pontypoolmuseum@hotmail.com