Anthony Bingham, Newport Jeweller, speaks to NPLife.

NPL: Who are you?

I am Anthony Bingham and I am a designer goldsmith with a shop in the often forgotten, lovely Newport Arcade.

NPL: How have your impressions of Newport changed over the years?

The nucleus of the town, i.e. the main shopping centre, has seen a dramatic down-turn in fortune. The council headed by Harry Jones lost the plot 20 years ago and it's never been found since he left. An over all strategy is required, not small individual projects, concentrating on the centre and less on the peripherals.

NPL: What do you like most about Newport?

The Transporter Bridge - yes, I know it's a shock not to say the pubs, clubs and music scene.

NPL: If there is one thing missing in the city, what do you think it is?

Pride. In the people who live and work in Newport. The apathy is tangible - no-one seems to care anymore and those who do don't speak loud enough.

NPL: What annual event in the city is a must, and why?

When one arrives I'm sure it will be worth looking forward to.

NPL: Do you have a secret gem of a place in the city?

The provision market. A wonderful building, unfortunately another opportunity missed regarding the first level. Where are the escalators and Victorian-fronted units? Again an almost ran.

NPL: Must see landmark?

Would you believe it - the Transporter Bridge. At least the council got this one right!

NPL: If you had to grant one wish to Newport, what would it be?

The banning of any more alcohol-based licences which create drunken violence and mess.

NPL: What would you say to those who constantly criticise the City?

I am one! I would like to look up and admire the wrought iron detailing and appreciate the older architecture in Newport because it is there but I'm too busy looking down, making sure I'm not stepping in something nasty! I get fed up with people telling me they shop in Cwmbran, with free parking and Cardiff with more variety.

NPL: Three great things about Newport?

The Transporter Bridge (you may have noticed I'm a fan). The velodrome at Spytty. And the surrounding countryside.