PEOPLE across Gwent will have the chance next May to witness a key part of the run-up to the UK's biggest ever sporting event, when the Olympic Flame torch relay passes through the area.

In the months leading up to the London 2012 Olympic Games, the torch will make its way through the UK on a 70-day journey designed to enable as many people as possible to see its progress.

Monmouth will be the first town in Wales to greet the torch relay and it is understood that it will also pass through Raglan, Abergavenny, Brynmawr, Blaenavon, Abersychan, Pontypool and Newport on its route through Gwent on Friday May 25. It will also visit Caerphilly on Saturday May 26. Exact times have yet to be formalised.

"We have always seen Monmouthshire as the gateway to Wales, and next year it certainly will be," said Monmouthshire council chairman councillor Brian Hood.

"We understand the flame will enter Wales at Monmouth on the morning of May 25 and then go on through Raglan and Abergavenny.

“It is a real honour. We see this as an event for all of our communities. We want to use the focus and symbolism of the Games as a springboard to encourage all of the people in the County, young and old, to take up and try out activities.”

Newport council is "deeply honoured" that the torch will be passing through the city, said leader Matthew Evans.

"We hope as many people as possible have the chance to see it."

The Flame, representing peace, unity and friendship, will be carried around the UK on its journey to the Olympic Stadium by 8,000 torchbearers.

Those torchbearers, who will be from across the UK, are currently being selected. An interactive map of the Olympic Flame's journey across the UK can be found at www.london2012.com/olympictorchrelaymap and details will be made available on council websites as they are confirmed.