HE'S been catapulted into the sky and abseiled from the civic centre tower, now Newport's Mayor is turning back time.

From Glen Miller tunes to bread and butter pudding and Spam, the city's Mansion House will be transformed back to the 1940s and the Second World War.

The mayor, Councillor Paul Cockeram, is hosting a themed social event in aid of his charity fund.

Complete with memorabilia from the time and full fancy dress, guests will be treated to an authentic and nostalgic wartime experience - minus the bombs, of course. Newport museum has loaned a number of items including gas masks, wartime posters, leaflets, photographs of Newport at the time and tins of popular wartime rations.

An original air raid siren, in full working order, will ensure the festivities are heard across the city.

And a buffet of popular delicacies from the period will ensure a true taste of the time.

The event follows a successful Victorian charity evening, also held last year at the Mansion House.

Councillor Cockeram said: "We wanted a fun and different way to raise money for the charities.

"It will be a great night, with plenty of music, good food and wine for all." Since October, nearly £20,000 has been raised for the mayor's three charities - Sparkle, Parkinson's Disease Society and Crossroads, through sponsored events and donations.

Councillor Cockeram hopes to break through the £20,000 mark by the time his term in office ends.

Councillor Ken Critchley will take over the Mayoral role in May. Tickets for the Second World War event on April 19 are £15. For more information contact 01633 232035.