A RIVERSIDE jazz concert next month could be the first step in restoring cultural and sporting links between Newnham and neighbouring Arlingham.

Donald Norfolk is hosting the concert on July 10 in the grounds of his home, Newnham House, over-looking the Severn near the old ferry crossing. And he would like to launch a "twinning" with Arlingham by inviting a large party from across the river.

"It would mean we would have to mount a D-day type small boats operation to ferry them across. But it would be a great start to renewing a link that operated for hundreds of years until the demise of the ferry," he said.

Three hundred tickets for the concert have gone on sale in village shops this week.

"A small committee has been very active and worked really hard to get the concert off the ground. It should be a really great event," said Dr Norfolk.

The concert will raise money for the Newnham Millennium Fund which has been set up to create a heritage walk.

The gates at Newnham House will open at 6pm so concert-goers can enjoy a picnic and wine in the grounds. The music will end at 10pm.

•Further information and tickets are available from Dr Norfolk on Dean 516363.