THOUSANDS of people were "over the moon" on Saturday as they visited or took part in this year's space-themed Maindee Festival in Newport.

Hundreds of children and adults in weird and wonderful space costumes wound their way through the streets of Maindee, accompanied by a bubble-blowing rocket.

As the procession ended at the festival site, Newport RFC's ground in Rodney Parade a shower began to fall, but it was impossible to dampen the mood of the participants.

The area's diverse and exciting cultures were well represented during a day awash with goodwill and high spirits.

Brian Selby, a well-known member of the Maindee community, opened the festival with an uplifting message as he described the "rainbow" on the field in front of him.

He said: "It is absolutely fantastic. We realise Maindee is a special place to be and we are all highly privileged to be a part of it."

Newport's mayor, Councillor Paul Cockeram, echoed his sentiments and was loudly applauded when he said: "What is exciting is the diversity here, and if we had this feeling throughout the world there wouldn't be the trouble spots we have got today."

A variety of entertainment from different parts of the world was enjoyed by the many people who streamed through the gates.

There were breakdancers and Eisteddfod flower girls, Newport Brass Band and St Julians School steel pan group, Newport Community Circus and Clwb Club with DJs and MCs, hip hop and garage music - and much more.

Among the stalls were fundraisers for our Sparkle appeal to raise £250,000 for the new centre for disabled children at High Cross - their activities included face painting and a game with the chance to win toys donated by Hasbro.