FRIENDS of Newport Rugby are appealing for memorabilia to help their planned development of a modern museum at Rodney Parade.

FoNR will hold the first of a series of open days in the Rodney Hall at the club before the Black and Ambers' home match against Ebbw Vale on Saturday, November 7.

The club already has a number of items of interest but are keen to expand their collection with articles relating to Newport RFC and Newport Athletic Club from the past 140 years.

They are interested in seeing any old programmes, tickets, books, scrap books, newspapers, caps, jerseys, trophies, badges and any other items.

"Our intention is to apply for Heritage Lottery Funding to help create a modern museum of current and new memorabilia, together with a trail of visual exhibits, to transform the stadium and proudly display the history of Newport Athletic Club and Newport Rugby Club," said an FoNR spokesman.

"We want to showcase Newport and the events that have taken place here, including county cricket, Welsh Tennis Championships, championship cycling and athletics meetings, together with international rugby matches.

"We are trying to put together one of the finest collections of sporting memorabilia in the UK and need the help and assistance of all Newport RFC members and supporters, the community and their families.

"If you have any item, large or small, please bring it in to show us and tell us all about it."

Items can be donated or simply scanned while those who cannot make the first open day can contact John Barrett (j.barrett@btinternet.com or 07885 117778), Steve Bennett (stattonrfc@live.co.uk or 07746 846981) or Graham Sully (gjsully@uwclub.net).