THE champagne was on ice a little longer than expected due to typically British weather, but the Argus street party winners finally enjoyed their prize today Once Sunday's rain had subsided, residents of Taff Court, Cwmbran, came out in force to hang up the bunting and decorate their street with red, white and blue balloons for their celebration of 60 years since the Queen came to the throne.

With the Jubilee street party pack for up to 50 people, courtesy of Peter's Pies and the Argus, they had all the ingredients for a right royal knees-up.

Donations of £30 from Hafod Housing Association, which looks after the houses there and £25 from the local pie company ensured plates were full to the brim with an assortment of buffet food.

Janette Smith, social secretary of Thornhill Tenants and Residents Association, who successfully nominated her street for the prize for their community spirit, said the day was a great get together for locals of all ages.

Taff Court's oldest resident, 87-year-old Edna House, looked on as local schoolchildren enjoyed playing party games.

The street party finally got underway at around 2pm having been postponed from Sunday due to wet weather.

However, despite their DJ not being able to do the rearranged party, it did not dampen the spirits.

Ms Smith said: "Everybody has been having a great time."

The winning entrants impressed the Argus by making many improvements to the area, carrying out litter picks, giving advice to locals and setting up many local groups.

Thanks to their work with various agencies, Thornhill was the only place in Wales to be awarded 'Exemplar' status.

Ms House, who has lived in the street since 1982 and helped set up the Silver Lining Club for the over 60s, said she has noticed the change.

"It has been improvement. People were always talking about police cars up here and were afraid to get involved in things," she said.

Ms Smith thanked the Argus and Peter's Pies for rewarding residents following their efforts.