Around 5,000 visitors braved the rain at this year's Blackwood summer festival.

A 50ft urban beach, fairground rides, a pirate show and live music were among the attractions which filled the town’s High Street for the two-day event held on Saturday and today.

The showers didn’t deter visitors who travelled from across Gwent to browse more than 40 food and craft stalls and meet children’s costumed characters including Woody, Fireman Sam and Peppa Pig.

Children were entertained by a Punch and Judy show, birds of prey and visited the Whacky Funhouse.

Among the many visitors were Donna and Michael Boucher, both 28, of Abertillery, who brought their three children Ellie, 7, Charlie,4, and Libby two to the event for the first time.

Mrs Boucher said: "The kids are really enjoying the beach, with all the sand and deckchairs and were excited to meet Peppa Pig."

"It’s a great day out for them and they are really looking forward to going on the rides," she added.

Marge Harding, of Dylan Avenue, Cefn Fforest, brought along grandchildren Libby, 4, and Kian, 5.

"The children were excited as soon as they saw the bouncy castle and have just seen the birds of prey. There’s plenty to see."

Bargoed couple Paul,35, and Andrea Jones, 36, said they weren’t put off by the weather.

"Our children Maisie, 2 and William, 4, met Buzz Lightyear and Woody and watched the pirate show and are having fun.."

Paul Hudson, Caerphilly council’s events and marketing manager estimated that more than 5,000 people attended over the weekend.

"The showers didn’t deter people from coming to what is a popular community event on their doorstep."

"It’s the first major event of the year in Blackwood and brings people into the town centre which is positive for traders and the regeneration of the town," he said.