FAMILIES from across Gwent were treated to a day of fun in the sun at the Pontypool Party in the Park on Saturday.

The event featured music and entertainment, with Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band headlining, while there was also a children’s parade, fun fair, stalls and activities, as well as a dog show hosted by All Creatures Great and Small Animal Sanctuary to keep the crowds entertained. 

This year’s event was organised by Pontypool Community Council, after Torfaen council decided to withdraw funding.

Rosemary Matthews, chairwoman of Pontypool Community Council, said: “From our perspective, it went really well. The Community Council were really proud of how it went. 

“It’s a big event and we didn’t want to let it go. 

“It was the busiest one we have seen for quite a while.

“There were a lot of fun activities for the children and the bands and entertainment was a big success.

“It was so busy at the fairground that you could barely move. The choir, and all of the entertainment on the main stage was very popular.

“We put up a big map and asked people to pinpoint where they had come from. We were also asking for feedback on what people would like to see at next year’s event. We will tweak it as we go along and we will see what feedback we get back and will try to make improvements year on year.

“When you think of all the events that were going on this weekend, and for the Party in the Park to be so busy, we are very proud of that.”

Gaynor James, leader of Pontypool Community Council, said: “It was absolutely awesome. 

“For it to be the first time the community council were holding it, it was wonderful.

“It was stressful to start with, wondering if we could pull it off, but I think it was the best Party in the Park we have had yet.

“There was a lot of stuff down there for kids that was free of charge. We had a fabulous time and the atmosphere was amazing. The weather was amazing. 

“I’m really proud of everyone at Pontypool Community Council to pull it all together. 

“It was organised right and it all just fell in to place. 

“It was great fun. All of the entertainment was superb. I just wish we could do it all again next weekend.”