There was a special musical treat for the usual afternoon tea session at the Bridges community centre this week as the centre celebrated its 40th year.

The afternoon Tea Club was welcomed into Agincourt Hall by Bethany and Freya, a string duo known as the Pipers.

This was followed by the Rock Choir with members from Abergavenny, Chepstow, Monmouth, and Newport all giving their time for free.

Jane Duke, one of the trustees for Bridges explained that as this was the centre’s 40th birthday, they are having a year of special activities, such as the visit in September by Cyrus Todiwala, of the Michelein starred Café Spice Namasté in London.

“Our tea club people paid a little extra this afternoon and were all treated to a glass of bucks fizz along with the usual selection of sandwiches and cake, served with tea or coffee.

“This does mean we are able to make a little more money and all we make goes into a ring-fenced account and we buy things that Bridges require,” she added.

“Alll our serving ladies volunteer their time and just take their costs out for the food so any money that's made, we keep and use for such things as new chairs, we paid for the room to be painted and paid for all the Christmas decorations, the little extras that make all the difference.

The Mayor of Monmouth, Cllr David Evans also enjoyed the afternoon along with his wife.

“My wife and I had a very pleasant time at the Bridges Centre celebratory afternoon tea - 40th Anniversary Edition. The food was fantastic with a wide range of sandwiches, cakes, scones, and meringues washed down with gallons of coffee or tea. The whole event was run by the army of volunteers who also provide a monthly afternoon tea on the second Monday of each month. A massive thanks goes to each and every one of them,” he said.

The afternoon teas are held on the second Monday afternoon of each month and costs £12. Anyone can join, just go to the reception at Bridges or give them a ring.