Tom Jones is backing a new "fame academy" which aims to help talented acts from the valleys to follow in his footsteps.

The social club where a young Tommy Woodward first sang on stage just yards from his home in Treforest, Pontypridd, is launching a campaign to unearth fresh talent.

We want to give another young person a chance to shine in the place where Tom first performed Landlord Paul Morgan

Years later, and Tom Jones is planning officially to open the nightspot - called Tom's in his honour - in his home village.

And he may even take to his old stage to raise money for charity.

Landlord of Tom's, Paul Morgan, said: "Tom is very supportive and is keen on the idea.

"He is planning to be here in the New Year to perform for charity.

"We are calling it the Tom Jones Fame Academy and are offering a �500 prize for the person judged to be the biggest star of the future."

Early days

The club was known as Treforest Non-Political Club when "the voice of the Valleys" first took to the stage as a boy.

It closed two years ago after hitting hard times, but has reopened after a major refit and has been renamed in honour of the famous act to grace its stage.

The 'fame academy' will be launched over eight weeks of Sunday nights from next month.

Tom Jones may take to his old stage

Mr Morgan added: "There are stars of the future out there and want to find them.

"Tom came from here and he's known around the world now.

"We want to give another young person a chance to shine in the place where Tom first performed.

"Tom has agreed to come here and perform with all the proceeds going to charity.

"We've haven't fixed up an exact date yet but we are all looking forward to it."