MORE than 1,500 people visited two iconic Torfaen landmarks on Bank Holiday Monday, to give people a rare glimpse of the views inside and up on high.

Approximately 956 people took in the views from the Folly Tower, while around 600 visitors popped into the Shell Grotto.

The volunteer-run group – Pontypool Park Friends – organised the annual event and were pleased with the turnout in 2016.

"What an amazing day in Pontypool Park this Bank Holiday Monday,” said Peter Fry, the chair of Pontypool Park Friends.

“The volunteers of Pontypool Park Friends once again opened the Shell Grotto and Folly Tower and welcomed 956 visitors who came along to visit the buildings, taking the opportunity to enjoy the weather and to enjoy the wonderful views out over the Beacons and the Bristol Channel.”

The renovated Folly Tower was completed in 1994 after the original structure was demolished in 1940 as the War Office deemed that landmark could be used by the Luftwaffe during World War II air raids of the Royal Ordnance Factory at ROF Glascoed.

The new tower stands at 12 metres tall and 1,000 feet above sea level and when it was completed, it was opened by HRH The Prince of Wales.

Located roughly a mile from the tower, the grade-II* listed Shell Grotto was first built in 1784, before it too was renovated and completed in 1994.

“It has always been the Friends’ aim to encourage people into the park to enjoy all that it has to offer and so it was pleasing that so many people came,” added Mr Fry.

“There were families and friends of all ages, some having come some distance, walking, picnicking, remembering childhood visits, taking in the views or just enjoying the fresh air all for free.”

In addition to the opening of the Folly Tower and the Shell Grotto, Pontypool Park Friends organise clean up events in the park as well as planting flowers and clearing weeds.

The chairman said: “Pontypool Park Friends would like to thank all those who came along to support us making it such a special day for everyone.”