A LOCAL man has used his own initiative and resources to make sure Newent has an Information and Visitor Centre this year, just in time for the tourist season.

The centre was opened recently by Onion Ed, Newent's mascot for the Onion Fayre, the spectacular event with brings over 10,000 people to Newent town centre each September .

The driving force behind the new centre, photographer Colin Thomas said: "It based in my shop which was set up to sell Newent souvenirs that I had created in order to pay for me to man the shop Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm.

"I had to put both together as I could get no help from anyone else. It is located in the Shambles Retail Village off Church Street."

Mr Thomas added: "I would like to thank Onion Ed for appearing and to thanks also all those who took time out to come along together with the best wishes received from those who were unable to attend. The traders in the town have been very supportive and I hope this will have the effect of bringing more people into Newent.

"It was great to see so much enthusiasm."

Two town councillors, Len Lawton and Karen Draper attended the launch, and Mr Thomas received congratulations and best wishes from Newent's mayor, Cllr Roger Beard .

The centre will now be open six days a week, Monday to Saturday from 10pm to 4pm.

Mr Thomas said: "Those of you who have not had a chance to see it please come and have a look "