EVENT: Party in the Park, Pontypool, was a fabulous fun-filled event, held on Saturday July 8, with hundreds of stalls to suit all generations.

Children had a special play area offering free activities: wall climbing, arts and crafts, games etc. and on such a sunny day was very well attended.

There were many local and national charities in attendance, running information and fundraising stalls.

I spent a very happy time in the Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre (LGAC) marquee, where many local artists, such as John Styles and Richard Davies were displaying their original art work.

There was also fun for children with concrete decorating mini-workshop and other suitable activities.

I was intrigued viewing the art cabinet produced by LGAC, where visitors were invited to open one of several drawers and discover therein a sample of ceramic art by some of the most famous artists in Wales. I was delighted to find the drawer I opened displayed a ceramic piece by internationally renowned artist Billy Adams, with whom I worked over a decade ago in the Pontypool Campus of Coleg Gwent.

The stage and performing area of the park had a non-stop series of live music and dance performances. Drawing a large audience were the young dancers of the Amanda Ellis Dance School Troupe. Full credit to all for the exciting and energetic display by these very young dancers.

Beatles Go On, is a nationally recognised tribute act to the Fab Four from Mersyside. They were amazing and paid great musical tribute to Ringo Starr whose 75th birthday was on that day.

Space does not permit me to describe all the delights on offer in the park, but it was clear that everyone was having a great time; sampling all on offer, including the luscious refreshments.

Well done to all who organised the Party in the Parc which the visitors to whom I spoke said it was the best one ever.

Gratitude also to all the charities, retail groups, performers and community organisations who contributed time and effort for this great celebration. Many thanks also to the weather, which was ideal.

Surely it is one of the great joys of life to sprawl on the grass, with picnic food and enjoy the music, dance and other arena displays.

However I do wish I was young enough to take part in the BMX display!

(Mary Barnett)