NEWPORT'S newest nightspot - inspired by the 1950s and showbiz legend Danny La Rue - is to open tonight.

Owner Andrew Carragon says he is excited at the opening of La Rue's Bar and Club, above the Church House Pub on Stow Hill.

The opening night will feature a performance by international cabaret artist, Terri Fox.

Upstairs in the newly-renovated club, guests will be invited to dine and watch the evening's entertainment.

Mr Carragon, 37, of Chepstow Road, owner of venue said Newport needed a club like this which would cater for men and women in the over 30s category, "There is an age group not being catered for and there is no reason why it should not be," he said.

The idea behind the club's name is Mr Carragon's fascination with the female impersonator Danny La Rue.

His collection of Danny La Rue memorabilia includes the late star's original costumes from shows, Hello Dolly and Danny La Rue at the Palace, theatre programmes, press photographs and much more.

"He (La Rue) came from nothing and got everything," he said.

"He worked right up until the day he died and I think a lot of people can learn from that."

The old upstairs function room, having undergone a complete face lift, is now filled with Louis 16th furniture, purple velvet drapes, soft furnishings, decadent silver, chandeliers, elaborate brocade wallpaper and pieces of Mr Carragon's personal collection of La Rue's show costumes in glass cases and other parts on the wall.

Mr Carragon had said he wanted the club to be like a "tasteful mini museum."

In just a short turn around since Mr Carragon decided to embark on this new project, to bring something new and exciting to Newport, the wait is finally up.

Tickets can be bought from the pub and are £15 for dinner and a show but only a few tickets remain.