THE CONGRESS Theatre has closed following government advice in an attempt to contain the spread of coronavirus.

All shows - including tonight's final showing of My Mother Said I Never Should - have been cancelled.

The theatre will be contacting customers directly in relation to cancellations and postponements.

Manager Martyn Redwood said: "The health and wellbeing of the community is paramount, and we have been closely monitoring the situation surrounding the COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) outbreak.

"In line with recent decisions, we have decided that it is in the best interest of the community to close with immediate effect. All performances, meetings and other room bookings are therefore cancelled as from today’s date.

"At this time, it is difficult to predict when the venue might re-open, but it is likely that the closure will remain effective until the end of May at the earliest.

"We will contact customers in relation to event cancellations and postponements. We are looking at shows in calendar order. Please bear in mind we have a small team and there are likely to be a high volume of calls so please be patient.

"Thank you for your understanding and continued support at this difficult time. To all our volunteers, staff and customers please look after yourselves, stay safe and we look forward to welcoming you all back in the near future."

The building will be manned during this time on reduced hours as staff try and contact all customers, but it will be closed to the public

Earlier this week, Cwmbran Community Council announced its annual school choral festival at the theatre had been cancelled.

The festival was due to take place from Monday to Wednesday next week.