BIG Pit National Coal Museum launched its series of free open air concerts at the weekend with a performance from Blaenavon Town Band.

Due to the poor weather, the first concert was held in the temporary exhibition room in Pithead Baths, but weather permitting the forthcoming concerts will be held in the open air against the backdrop of the Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site.

The Music on the Patio events will be held over the next four Sundays, with a different local band or choir performing each week.

Blaenavon Town Band started the series and Ebbw Valley Brass, Brecon Town Council Band, Pontypool Brass and Young People with Dementia Choir, who will bring the event to a close on August 5, will follow them.

There has often been a close connection between music and industry in the South Wales valleys, with some of the leading bands and choirs from the region being sponsored by the local colliery.

This summer Big Pit will be celebrating these connections with free concerts.

For more information, contact Catherine Stowers on 02920 573650.