MONMOUTH sixth formers will lead a project into tracing the memories held at the town’s famous Rockfield recording studios, which has been used by stars including Gwent's Manic Street Preachers, Oasis and Queen.

The 13 A-Level Monmouth Comprehensive School students will contact bands and musicians who have recorded at the studios for a special exhibition.

From Stables to Studios: The Story of Rockfield, Monmouth and Music will form part of the pupils’ free time after school and at weekends for their Welsh Baccalaureate.

It will trace its past from a farm at the turn of the 20th century to becoming a world-class recording studios.

Notable events at the recording studio have included Queen recording their hit Bohemian Rhapsody there, and the Super Furry Animals fired guns outside Rockfield for their track, The Undefeated.

It is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and its head in Wales, Richard Bellamy, said: “The Rockfield studio history is fascinating in itself, but this project will go further by exploring its relationship with the local area and how that has impacted on its development.

“In addition the students involved will receive training to help undertake interviews, as well as create and market the exhibition, so they’ll be developing various life skills that will be valuable in later life.”

Monmouthshire council’s Joanne Davies, who is helping coordinate the exhibition, said: “Although Rockfield is known as one of the most influential recording studios in the UK, and indeed the world, surprisingly little is currently exhibited locally about this Monmouth gem.

“Although it’s early days, we’re already overwhelmed by some of the funny and intriguing titbits that we’re unearthing including local residents who remember selling shoes to big name rock stars, or playing pool with band members in the local pubs.”

“It’s these kind of stories that we want to dig up and share with others. I would like to encourage anyone with any anecdotes or memories about Rockfield to come forward and let us know how much it rocked you!”

The exhibition is due to launch in April. To share your memories email Joanne on joannedavies@monmouthshire.gov.uk.