PRESIDENT Barack Obama could buy up Friars Walk or Newport Market, while wife Michelle could take control of the South Wales Argus or Transporter Bridge.

That's because the Obamas will have a new family board game to play on Christmas Day after being sent the Newport edition of Monopoly as a present.

The makers of the board yesterday revealed they have sent the Newport Monopoly board to the White House as a reminder of his two day Nato visit in September.

They said it is hoped the board could also be used as a present for the First Lady Michelle Obama who celebrates her birthday next month.

President Obama was welcomed to the city earlier this year where he met primary school children and signed a mural of Wales and Newport’s famous landmarks.

It is unknown whether the White House requested the game or if they were sent it as a surprise gift.

The Mayor of Newport, Councillor Matthew Evans, said: “It’s brilliant news. I hope they get it out on Christmas Day and play it with the family.

“I’m sure it will give them very happy memories of the Nato summit whether it was requested or sent as part of an initiative. Either way I’m glad it’s ended up in the White House.”

The news comes after the AM for South Wales East, William Graham, called for Barack Obama to be given the Freedom of the City of Newport ahead of his visit.

President Obama was one of 60 world leaders who descended on Newport, visiting some of the sites showcased on the board.

The customised edition of the game, which was produced in seven months, features around 30 Newport landmarks including the Celtic Manor Resort which hosted the summit, as well as Tredegar House and Newport Market.

Dan Taylor, Head of Custom Games at Winning Moves UK, who are producing the board under official license from Monopoly owners Hasbro, said the board has been one of its most popular and has already completed its second print run.

He said: “We feel sending an edition to the White House is the least we can do as the Summit raised the profile of Newport still further, just before we launched this edition. “

“A Happy Christmas too, and happy playing next week and beyond!”