A SHORT film and two adverts launched by a school’s theatre company have been watched by nearly 2,000 viewers.

The film and adverts, filmed by Newport film students and featuring former Gwent Theatre member and BBC Torchwood actor Gareth David- Lloyd have proven a hit on the video-sharing site You Tube.

The adverts are the first of five to be released as part of a campaign to save Abergavenny-based Gwent Theatre, following the decision by Wales Arts Council to axe £250,000 annual funding from next year.

In the latest video ad, Mr David-Lloyd is seen as a young boy dreaming of fighting aliens and as Ianto Jones living his dream. It closes with an impassioned plea by the star.

"Thanks to Gwent Theatre I have fought aliens and monsters, now I’m fighting for Gwent Theatre. I’m living my dream, don’t take away theirs. Save Gwent Theatre," he said.

To view the adverts type You Tube into your search engine and then enter Save Gwent Theatre.