AN Appeal to fund a permanent memorial to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in Usk is underway.

Usk Town Council want to commemorate the occasion in the same way local people funded the clock in Twyn Square for Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.

The Jubilee Arch would take pride of place across the entrance of Owain Glyndwr Playing Field on Maryport Street.

Usk Mayor Christine Wilkinson said the arch was the most popular choice.

"The playing field was the obvious location for a memorial as it is well-used and its entrance is in need of some attention."

The wrought-iron structure, designed by Cathy Davies of Usk, would be over two metres wide and just under three metres high and feature the dates 1952 to 2012 and initials E.R. As well as the arch the council plans to put up new railings alongside the entrance.

The council has written to all residents in the town to explain the idea and to invite them to support the project, which will cost around £8,000.

Monmouthshire council, which owns the playing field is working in partnership with the Town Council to improve the appearance of the recreational area.

Recreation officer, Tim Bradfield said: "We will be improving the appearance of the boundary wall by repairing and re-pointing it, removing the overgrowth, pruning the trees and arranging for the railings to be repaired and painted."

The plans are on display on the notice board at the Sessions House and in the window porch during office hours.