FINE weather ensured the annual Crosskeys and Pontywaun carnival was a major success over the weekend.

More than 1,000 people lined the streets to watch the procession as it meandered from the entrance to Cwmcarn Scenic Drive, through Pontywaun and Crosskeys towards the finish point at Crosskeys rugby cub.

The parade featured an impressive nine floats and three marching bands; The Prince of Wales, Risca Sea cadets and Crosskeys Silver band.

A panel of judges featuring the South Wales Argus grassroots correspondent for Risca, Walter Jones, Islwyn AM Irene Jones and former Islwyn AM Brian Hancock gave first prize in the float competition to the Cwmcarn Brownies with their theme of Disney Fairy Tales.

The Brownies just edged out the Crosskeys Rugby club darts team and Crosskeys Linedancing club into second and third place respectively.

A lack of interest meant there were no entrants for the carnival queen although organisers are hoping to rectify that next year. After the parade, carnivalgoers were treated to a feast of entertainment at Crosskeys rugby club where the Royal Welsh Regiment marching band were playing.There was also a falconry display, along with bouts from the Cwmcarn boxing club and a family disco.

Natalie Haynes, chairwoman of the Crosskeys and Pontywaun carnival committee, said: "The day was absolutely brilliant - the weather really made it.

"The turnout was great and people are saying it was the biggest carnival they have seen for a long time.

"All we are hearing is good reports about the carnival which is very pleasing because the committee worked very hard."