FORMER Wales and British Lions rugby player Scott Quinnell helped to open a recently-transformed block of Torfaen flats.

More than 50 members of the public and New Inn Primary School children joined the street party atmosphere on Monmouth Road and took part in a ceremony rewarding workers on the site.

It is the first stage of a re-development to sixty flats in New Inn, Cwmbran as Bron Afon looks to improve living standards.

The rugby player, who lives in Usk, joined staff in the official opening and said: “These homes look beautiful, you would never know they are the same buildings as before.

“I hope the public enjoy living in the wonderful homes and the affordability of the re-development means that rent is less and you have more money in your pocket, which is good for everyone and what it is all about.”

The work involved roofing, glazing and external wall insulation, making the homes more energy efficient, resulting in lower fuel bills and improved internal heating.

Bron Afon's director of property, Keith Wrate, said: "I’m sure not everyone is here to see me but this is a chance for local residents to look at the standard of work that is being carried out us in the area.

“Another nine blocks are currently being revitalised as part of the programme of work, which will transform the appearance of this area. We appreciate that work like this can be a disturbance for local residents but we appreciate how supportive they have been over the last few months.”

The ceremony started at 2pm last Wednesday and went on for several hours with awards handed out to some of the workers including two of the apprentices who focused on the block.

Bron Afon also commemorated the Queen’s 90th birthday and presented a plaque as part of the opening.

The other nine blocks should be finished by August.

Business development manager for Westdale Services, Iain Wheeler, said: “Working with Bron Afon and residents to give a much-needed boost to the flats has been a valuable experience.

“We are thankful to residents for their patience and pleased with the finished quality. It’s also been a pleasure to work with the ‘EWI That Works’ Training Academy to train four local young people to help them get into work.”