A PONTYPOOL artist has added his support to the campaign to save Pontypool Museum - as the threatened institution announces a quarter century of new members since an appeal was launched.

The museum has set a target of 1,000 new members to help make up the £19,000 cash shortfall in its budget.

Staff said this week they have hit the 250 new member mark.

Supporting the campaign is landscape artist, Bev Harris, 75, who showcases his work at the museum, along with his wife, Jill, who sells mohair teddy bears there.

He said: “It’s a lovely vibrate museum and the staff are doing a great job to enhance the services on offer there. It's vital that people support it as a space for local artists to exhibit."

Mr Harris and his wife have been members for eight years, and he exhibits work in the annual Winter Art exhibit in the gallery.

The museum also runs Café Art throughout the year where members have mini exhibits.

Fundraising officer at Pontypool Museum, Sassy Hicks, added: “We would actively encourage any artist to join us as a member so they can network with other creative people and also have the opportunity to showcase their work in our beautiful gallery.”

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 items in the museum shop, exclusive invitations to special events and exhibitions, newsletters featuring upcoming attractions and trust news, and voting rights at the trust AGM.

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

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